Chapter 453

Evelyn leaned closer, her bare foot sliding across Liam's thigh as she settled onto his lap.

Liam's entire body went rigid. His passionate kiss came to an abrupt halt.

Her delicate fingers curled around his neck, hips lifting until they brushed against his growing arousal.

Electricity shot through Liam's veins. His heart pounded like war drums as every muscle tensed.

An undeniable response surged within him.

Gritting his teeth, Liam pushed her face away, his expression torn between desire and frustration. "We agreed - no seduction."

Evelyn's cheeks burned crimson as she whispered, "It wasn't intentional."

His strong hands gripped her slender waist, pressing down firmly while pulling her closer. "Then explain this."

Squirming slightly from the pressure, she stammered, "I-It's just...natural."

Liam inhaled sharply, teetering on the edge of control. "You're playing with fire, Evelyn."

His voice came out rough and low, defenses crumbling under the weight of his desire.

She bit her lower lip, avoiding his intense gaze.

Liam's eyes dropped to her parted lips. The warmth of her body against his made his breathing ragged, chest rising and falling rapidly. Need burned through him like wildfire.

Evelyn was being reckless, and Liam found himself powerless to stop her.

In that moment, all his discipline evaporated.

She finally met his smoldering gaze, whispering shyly, "Liam...don't you want to try?"

One word escaped his lips. "Yes."

Consumed by longing, he wanted nothing more than to unleash years of pent-up passion. Countless sleepless nights had been spent imagining this moment.

Evelyn sensed victory. Her inexperienced hands tightened around his neck, instinctively seeking closeness.

That simple gesture nearly shattered Liam's restraint.

His chest constricted, breaths coming in heavy pants, lips dry with anticipation.

With sudden force, Liam lifted her and deposited her on the nearby sofa, away from dangerous proximity.

Only then did Evelyn notice how tightly his pants strained against him. "Wait here," Liam growled, voice thick with desire. "I'm getting protection."

He started to rise.

Evelyn caught his hand in panic. "No, we don't need that."

Confusion darkened Liam's features.

Guilt flashed across her face as she explained, "I'm afraid you won't come back."

He tenderly cupped her flushed cheek, gaze intense. "I promise I will."

"But..." Evelyn hesitated, struggling to find words.

Seeing her distress, Liam grew serious. Gently tilting her chin up, he searched her eyes. "Tell me truthfully - is this about affection? Curiosity? Or something else?"

"I just want to experience this with you," she admitted, ears turning pink. Her heart raced under his penetrating gaze.