Page 25 of The Rancher's Second-Choice Wife

"Don't be."

Poppy was still trying to decide whether the flatness of his tone was something she should worry about when she heard him speak again.

"There's something else I need to ask you about."

"Of c-course." Poppy didn't know why she was suddenly stammering.

"Did I cross the line with you last night?" the billionaire asked abruptly. "Was the kiss something I forced on you?"

"Not...exactly?" Poppy started fanning her face. Why did she feel so hot all of a sudden?

"I need you to be clearer."

"I wasn't expecting you to do that, but it wasn't...unwelcomed?"

Poppy felt like melting by the time she finished choking the words out.

"I see."

If embarrassment could kill, Poppy would've already died several times over in the past minute alone.

"I have one last question."

Lucky her. Not!

"And I need you to be honest with me. Can you promise me that?"

Her brows furrowed. What could Valerian ask her that was so important? "I promise, I'll be—-"

"Did you enjoy my kiss?"

Oh. My. Gosh.

She wished she could think of something more profound to express her shock, but the words were all her mind was presently capable of.

"Yes or no, Poppy.

Poppy cleared her throat.

Twice.

Thrice.

And finally, she managed to choke out, "Uh...huh."

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