Chapter 77 - Seventy Seven
"Stop it, Ryan," Suzy snapped, trying to sound stern. "This is serious."
But even as she scolded him, her gaze was drawn to his face, his eyes, and the way his hair fell carelessly over his forehead. He was undeniably handsome, even in his weakened state. A flicker of something strange, a mix of admiration and something else, stirred within her.
"You’re right," Ryan said, his voice dropping to a husky whisper. "This is serious."
He leaned in, his breath warm against her skin. Suzy’s breath caught in her throat as she realized his intentions. The proximity, the scent of his cologne, and the intensity in his eyes were a potent combination, sending her senses into overdrive.
" Since you asked, what about you, could you be alone with me?" She asked him trying to divert his attention.
Silence.
She wanted to pull away, to reassert her boundaries, but her body seemed to have a mind of its own. She was frozen, unable to move or speak.
Ryan’s eyes scanned her face, his gaze lingering on her lips. A slow, seductive smile curved his lips. "You’re very tempting, Duchess," he murmured, his voice a husky whisper.
Suzy’s heart pounded in her chest as she struggled to maintain her composure. "You’re losing it," she managed to say, her voice laced with disbelief. "What kind of nonsense are you spouting now?"
Ryan’s eyes held a mischievous glint. "Just answering your question, Duchess," he replied, his voice low and husky. "You asked if I’d be alone with you, and I’m simply exploring the possibilities."
Suzy felt a blush creeping up her cheeks. This man had a way of disarming her with his words and actions. "You’re being ridiculous," she retorted, trying to sound stern but failing miserably.