Page 177 of My Ruthless Neighbor

Iturn and lie on my side. Using my hand as a pillow, I stare at Archer in the darkness of his bedroom.

He is stretched out on his back with one arm above his head. The covers are bunched up at his waist, revealing his washboard abs he sleeps peacefully.

We had sex three times. Well, four if I count the shower sex.

Like usual, I started getting dressed because I know we never spend the night together. So imagine my shock when he picked me up and tossed me on his bed.

He removed the panties and bra I had on and pulled me to his chest, cocooning me. “Go to sleep.” He said simply and I couldn’t keep the smile off my face for a solid minute before drifting to sleep.

I woke up a while ago, startled when his leg brushed against mine.

This is my first time sleeping next to someone. It’s different but in a good way.

The contentment I feel watching him sleep is something I have never known.

It’s like filling my lungs with the air of freedom after being trapped for years in my very own prison I had built a long time ago. A place with walls so strong, so impenetrable, no one had access to it.

But then Archer came. And willed me to take a chance.

So I did. By releasing myself from me, I have taken a great risk. A risk that could destroy me but can also give me him. His love.

It’s a very scary state to be in. But also stirring.

Is my act of bravery a foolish mistake? Only time will tell. Right now, I just want to live in the moment.

He shifts in his sleep, his brows creasing. I scoot closer and reach him with my index finger to erase his frown gently.

I still when he stirs again and opens his eyes.

“Sorry,” I whisper and go to snatch my hand away but he grabs it.

He brushes his lips over my knuckles and my heart pitter-patters in my chest. “What time is it?” He rasps, his voice all rough from sleep.

He is so sexy without even trying.

“Around four in the morning.” My breath hitches when he kisses my knuckles distractedly.

“Hmm.” He appears deep in thought.

“What?”

“I slept for three hours straight.”

“You have insomnia?”

“Something like that.” He rubs his eyes.

“Go back to sleep. I won’t bother you now.” When I try to free my hand, he tightens his grip.

“Why are you up?”

I shrug. “I woke up a while ago and couldn’t fall asleep again.”

“Come here.” He stretches his arm beneath my head and I happily move closer, nuzzling his bare chest.

He runs his hand over my naked back. My nipples tighten in response, grazing his hot skin.

I shiver but it has nothing to do with the temperature of the room. I want him again. My body hums at his mere touch.

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