Natalie bit her lip as Dante sucked on her neck like a vampire. His tongue swirled around the surface of her neck, teasing her so reliably.

“Are you going to insist on rejecting me again this time?” the man whispered. After all, it sounded mocking to Natalie.

“Even if I refuse, won’t you not care about it?” Natalie replied softly.

Dante slipped his fingers between Natalie’s. He grasped her hand tightly. “I won’t leave you if that’s what you’re afraid of.”

“No, it’s not.” Natalie shook her head. The look in her eyes was cold, as if her heart were so far away and untouchable. “I’m afraid of trusting men.”...