Raymond watched Lina flee, a satisfied smile spreading across his face. He hadn’t expected that kiss, but he wasn’t complaining.
As he returned to his seat, his mind replayed the moment. Lina’s lips had felt like home, her body fitting perfectly into his.
Jenkins cleared his throat, breaking the spell. “Sir, shall I clear the table?”
Raymond nodded, his gaze still on the stairs Lina had disappeared up.
The butler efficiently cleared the table, his expression neutral. “Will that be all, sir?”
Raymond stood, his eyes never leaving the stairs. “Yes, Jenkins. You may retire for the night.”
Jenkins bowed. “Goodnight, sir.”
As the butler left, Raymond’s thoughts turned to Lina. He knew she was still upset, but that kiss had changed everything.
He strode upstairs, his heart pounding with anticipation.
Reaching Lina’s door, he hesitated, wondering if he should knock.
But something stopped him. Instead, he turned and entered the elevator back to the third floor. He entered his bedroom, a plan forming in his mind.
Raymond’s mind raced as he undressed and slipped into bed. He couldn’t shake the feeling that Lina’s kiss gave him. He knew he was attracted to her, if not he wouldn’t have married her, but his attraction was not sexually. Now, he felt he might be wrong. Even when he wasn’t drugged, he wanted her. He replayed their encounter, analyzing every detail.
While in Lina’s room, Lina leaned against her bedroom door, her heart racing. She couldn’t believe she’d kissed Raymond. The sensations still lingered on her lips. It wasn’t just a polite peck; it was a real kiss.
She paced across the room, trying to process her emotions. Raymond’s touch had sparked something within her. For the first time, she saw him as more than just a contract partner. It’s not that she hadn’t kissed before, it’s just that Raymond’s kiss felt different. The way his lips molded to hers, the gentle pressure, and the subtle hint of desire left her breathless.
Lina stopped pacing and closed her eyes, reliving the moment. She’d expected discomfort or hesitation, but instead, her body had responded eagerly. Raymond’s arms had wrapped around her, holding her close, and for a fleeting instant, she’d felt safe.
Her eyes snapped open as realization dawned: she was attracted to her in name husband.
The thought sent a shiver down her spine. How could this be? Their marriage was a business arrangement, a mutually beneficial contract. Emotions weren’t supposed to enter the picture.
Lina’s gaze drifted to the door, wondering if Raymond felt the same. Had he sensed her response? Did he want more? She sighed before walking to the front of the mirror. What happened in the future will be dealt with then.
Lina stopped in front of the mirror, studying her reflection. Her cheeks were flushed, and her eyes sparkled. She looked… happy.
Lina smiled at her reflection, feeling a sense of calm wash over her. She slipped into bed, her thoughts still replaying the kiss. As she drifted off to sleep, she knew tomorrow would bring new challenges.
The next morning, Lina woke up early, feeling refreshed. She quickly dressed and packed for her trip. Downstairs, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee drew her to the dining hall.
Raymond sat at the table, sipping his coffee and scanning his phone. His eyes lifted as she entered, and their gazes met.
“Good morning,” Lina said, trying to sound casual despite the butterflies in her stomach.
“Morning,” Raymond replied, his voice low and smooth.
Lina took a seat across from him, aware of the tension between them. Jenkins appeared with a warm smile. “Good morning, ma’am. Your breakfast will be right out.”
As Jenkins left, Lina and Raymond sat in silence, the memories of last night lingering. Lina’s cheeks flushed, and she focused on her coffee.
Raymond broke the silence. “Sleep well?”
Lina nodded, meeting his gaze. “Yes, thank you.”
Their eyes locked, and for a moment, Lina felt like they were back in the moment of the kiss. “She coughs slightly, to ease the awkward moment.
Lina poured herself a cup of coffee, trying to appear nonchalant. “So, what’s on your schedule today?” Dammit Lina, why ask about that? Thinking he wouldn’t answer her, she heard him say; “I have a meeting with our financial team. Nothing too exciting.”
Raymond leaned back in his chair, his eyes never leaving hers.
Lina smiled, taking a sip of her coffee. “Sounds like a typical Monday.”
Their conversation flowed easily, discussing everything from business to weekend plans. Lina found herself laughing and feeling more at ease with Raymond.
As they finished breakfast, Jenkins appeared with Lina’s luggage. “Your car is ready, ma’am.”
Lina stood, smoothing her dress. “Thanks, Jenkins.”
Raymond walked her to the door, his hand brushing against hers. “Safe travels, Lina. When do you return?”
“I should be back in two weeks time, by then, I will be done with my finals.” she replied, her heart skipping a beat at his touch. Raymond brow furrowed at her answer.
Raymond nodded, his eyes locked on hers. Moving closer towards her, he bent his head as his lips almost touched hers.
Lina’s eyes widened in surprise as Raymond’s face drew closer. She thought he was going to kiss her, and her heart raced with anticipation.
Closing her eyes, she tilted her head slightly, waiting for the touch of his lips.
But instead, she felt a gentle tug on her hair.
Lina’s eyes snapped open to find Raymond smiling, holding a stray strand of hair that had escaped her updo.
“You had a loose thread,” he said, his voice low and playful.
Lina’s cheeks flushed as she laughed, feeling a mix of relief and disappointment.
“Thanks,” she said, smiling up at him.
Raymond’s gaze lingered on hers, his eyes crinkling at the corners.
“Two weeks is a long time,” he said, his voice softer.
Lina’s heart skipped a beat. Was he going to miss her?
“I know,” she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.
Raymond stepped back, his expression serious.
“Be safe, Lina.” Lina nodded, feeling a sense of longing as she turned to leave.
She hasn’t taken more than two steps, before feeling a tug on her hand. As she turned back, her lips were caught in a gentle, yet firm kiss. Raymond’s eyes locked onto hers, his gaze burning with intensity.
Lina’s surprise melted into surrender as she leaned into the kiss. His lips moved slowly, savoring the moment. Lina wrapped her arms around his neck, drawing him closer.
Time stood still. The world around them faded.
All that existed was the warmth of their lips, the thrumming of their hearts.
Raymond broke the kiss, his breath mingling with hers.
“Take care of yourself,” he whispered, his voice husky.
Lina’s eyes fluttered open, still in a daze.
“I will,” she promised, her voice barely audible.
Raymond’s fingers brushed against her cheek, sending shivers down her spine.
With a final glance, Lina turned and left.
As the door closed behind her, Raymond’s expression softened.
A small smile played on his lips. “Mine,” he whispered to himself.