Claire's POV

Damian’s large hand tightened on my waist. He paused. His gold eyes searched mine, burning with raw desire.

“Claire,” he rasped. “If you want to stop, say it now.”

The magnetic pull wasn't about pure strategy anymore. Before, I had offered myself to secure his royal protection. Tonight was entirely different.

I touched his face, tracing his sharp jaw.

“I chose this,” I whispered.

His iron control shattered.

He crushed his mouth against mine. His tongue swept inward with possessive demand, searing my senses. Liquid heat flooded my veins. His heavy hands slid up, cupping my breasts through the thin silk.

When his rough thumbs brushed my hard...