~LAUREN’S POV~

The night began with warm moments but soon turned into confusion and frustration. As we left the restaurant, Alexandro lightly placed his hand on my back.

I could feel the heat of it through the thin fabric of my dress, and it was unnervingly distracting.

When he leaned closer to whisper in my ear, his breath brushing against my skin, it sent shivers down my spine.

“You’ll have to get used to my touch,” he murmured, his voice low and edged with amusement. “I can’t have you flinching every time I lay a hand on you.”

“It’s cold,” I lied, hoping to cover up the growing embarrassment from...