Contract Marriage: I Will Never Love You

Hailey

His shirt falls to the floor with a wet slap, and I trace my fingers along his chest, marveling at the warmth of his skin despite the rain. Josh’s hands find the hem of my blouse, tugging it upward as his eyes seek permission. I nod, lifting my arms as he pulls it over my head.

"You’re beautiful," he whispers, his voice husky with desire.

I silence him with another kiss, my fingers working at his belt. We stumble backward, shedding layers as we go—his jeans, my skirt, leaving a trail of wet clothes across the floor. My back hits the wall again, and Josh lifts me, my legs wrapping around his waist. I cradle his face in my hands, breathing hard.

"My room," I murmur against his lips. "Now."

I slide down, taking his hand and pulling him toward my bedroom with newfound certainty.

The door closes behind us, and I push him toward the bed, watching as he falls back against the mattress. His eyes never leave mine as I reach behind to unhook my bra.

"Are you sure?" he asks, propping himself up on his elbows.

"I’ve never been more sure of anything," I say, crawling over him.

Josh’s hands settle on my hips, warm and steady. "I need you to know something," he says, suddenly serious. "This isn’t just..."

I press my finger to his lips. "I know."