Chapter 109

• Howard couldn't sleep. The bed felt empty, mocking him. He rose quietly, drawn to the couch like a moth to a flame.
• Charlotte slept peacefully, the pearl nightgown clinging thin—a second skin revealing every curve. Smooth legs stretched out, bare shoulder glowing in lamplight, neck bearing his red bite mark. He stared, transfixed—curves rising with each breath, softness begging touch.
• No, he thought, clenching fists. I don't want this. But he couldn't stop, eyes devouring her.