LILITH

In contrast to the single-story villa I had just been shown, Dean’s place was a two-story modern courtyard villa with sleek lines and a dark stone exterior. It radiated sophistication and understated grandeur.

Honestly, I’d imagined him living in a penthouse. That felt more like his style.

But unexpectedly, he fit in perfectly here.

I guess I’d been too narrow-minded and quick to judge.

As we stepped inside, Dean opened the shoe cabinet, took out a pair of gray house slippers, and placed them in front of me.

“I don’t have women’s slippers, so you’ll have to make do with mine,” he said, then added with a teasing smile,...