* * *

Chloe

Everything feels surreal, like a dream I don’t want to wake up from. The room is warm and dimly lit, the firelight casting shadows that flicker across Ethan’s broad shoulders as he kneels in front of me, his hands resting on my thighs.

“You okay?” he asks, his voice low and steady, his eyes searching mine.

I nod, my breath hitching as his fingers brush against the hem of my sweater. “Yes.”

“Good,” he murmurs, a faint smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. “Because I want to make you feel things you’ve never felt before, Chloe. I want to make you mine.”

The words send a shiver down my spine, and I watch, mesmerized, as he slides his hands under my sweater, lifting it slowly. His touch is warm, firm but gentle, and when he pulls the fabric over my head, his breath catches again.

“You’re perfect,” he says, his voice rough and reverent, his gaze raking over me like he’s trying to memorize every inch of my skin. “So fucking perfect.”

My cheeks burn, and I glance away, but he tilts my chin back up, his thumb brushing over my lips. “Don’t hide from me, sweetheart. Let me see you.”

His hands move to my jeans, unbuttoning them with a practiced ease that makes my pulse quicken. He’s so careful, so patient, and when he slides them down my legs, he presses a kiss to my knee, his lips warm and soft against my skin.

“You’re trembling,” he murmurs, his hands sliding up my thighs. “Tell me what you’re feeling, Chloe.”

“I…” I bite my lip, my heart racing as his hands move higher. “I’m scared. But I want this. I want you.”

His eyes soften, and he leans forward, pressing his forehead against mine. “You don’t have to be scared. I’m going to take care of you, okay? I’ll go slow. I’ll stop if you want me to. Just say the word.”

I nod, my breath catching as his lips find mine again, softer this time, more tender. His hands are everywhere, sliding over my skin, exploring every curve, every dip, until I feel like I’m coming apart under his touch.

Chapter 11

Ethan

She’s trembling under me, her soft body flush against mine, and every ounce of restraint I’ve ever had is hanging by a thread. But this isn’t about me—it’s about her. It’s about making this perfect for her, about showing her how good it can feel when she gives herself to someone who will treat her like she deserves.

“Relax, sweetheart,” I murmur, trailing my lips along her jaw. “I’ve got you.”

She nods, her breath hitching as my hands slide over her waist, my fingers brushing against her soft skin. Her body is warm and inviting, and when I press my lips to the curve of her shoulder, she lets out the softest little whimper that goes straight to my cock.

“You’re so beautiful, Chloe,” I whisper, my voice rough but steady. “You’re driving me crazy.”

Her lips parting as she meets my gaze. “You… you make me feel…”

“Good?” I ask, a faint smirk tugging at the corner of my mouth as I slide my hand lower, my fingers brushing against the lace of her panties.

She nods quickly, her hands clutching at my shoulders. “Yes.”

“Good,” I murmur, leaning down to kiss her again. This time, it’s slower, deeper, my tongue teasing hers as I press her backagainst the bed. My hand slips under the lace, and when I feel how wet she is, I groan softly, the sound rumbling deep in my chest.

“Fuck, Chloe,” I growl, my fingers sliding through her slick heat. “You’re so wet for me. So perfect.”

Her hips jerk against my hand, her thighs trembling as I circle her clit with my thumb. She gasps, her nails digging into my shoulders, and the sound of her soft, breathless moans fills the room.

“Ethan,” she whispers, her voice shaky but full of need.

“I know, sweetheart,” I say softly, kissing the corner of her mouth. “And I’m going to make this good for you. I promise.”

She nods, her trust in me written all over her face, and I slide my fingers lower, pressing one gently inside her. She’s tight—so tight it takes everything I have not to lose control right then and there—but I go slow, letting her adjust, watching her every reaction.

“Does that feel okay?” I ask, my voice low and rough.