Chapter 50: Making Sure He Eats Something
Summer’s POV
The steamy air wrapped around me like a warm blanket as I stood in front of the master bathroom mirror, my damp hair falling in dlack waves down my back. Brandon’s silk robe felt impossibly sull inst my skin – I’d found it hanging in the closet and couldnt
resist trying it on, especially since he was supposed to be at the Start mansion tonight.
I twisted slightly, watching how the expensive fabric caught the light The bathroom was still filled with steam from my shower, giving everything a dreamy, surreal quality.
Then I caught a glimpse of something in t
the mirror that made
my but stop. Ma. Na way.
Brandon stood in the doorway, lus dark eyes reflecting in the foggy mirror as they traveled over my form with dangerous intensity. I spun around, suddenly very aware of how the silk clung to my still–damp skin.
“Ah, you… when did you get back?” My voice came out embarrassingly high as I crossed my arms protectively over my chest. The robe suddenly felt far too thin, Ino revealing.
He didn’t answer immediately, just continued to study me with that predatory focus. One corner of his mouth lifted.
Move, Summer! I edged toward where I’d left my clothes, trying to maintain some dignity despite how my cheeks burned By the time I’d grabbed my pajamas and ducked behind the shower curtain to change, I heard his footsteps retreating.
I waited until my heart stopped racing before emerging from the bathroom, but Brandon was already gone. The master bedroom felt strangely empty without his overwhelming presence.
That just happened? I pressed my cool palms against my flaming cheeks, trying to process the last few minutes. The memory of his intense gaze made something Nutter in my stomach. Get it together wwer. He’s your husband- of course he’s going to see you in various states of undress eventually
But knowing that didn’t make it any less nerve–wracking.
After what felt like hours but was probably only minutes, I finally gathered enough courage to leave the bedrooms. The sound of running water from one of the guest rooms made me pause. A cold shower? The thought sent an unexpected shiver down my spine.
I found myself drawn to Brandon’s study, seeking comfort in the familiar space. The walls of leather–bound books reminded me of Grandpa Thompson’s Library, and I couldn’t help running my fingers along their spines as I browsed.
“Interested?
I jumped at Brandon’s voice, nearly dropping the financial history text I’d been examining. He stood in the doorway, hair still damp from his shower, looking unfairly attractive in casual clothes.
“Grandpa Thompson has these in his study too.” I managed to keep my voice steady despite how my heart raced. “Now I understand why you like collecting them.”
One perfect eyebrow arched slightly as he moved into the room with that predatory grace that seemed to come so naturally to him.
“Looking for me?” The amusement in his tone made heat creep up my neck.
My fingers twisted nervously in my
hem. Why did I come here ugnie?
“Yes or no?” His dark eyes held mine with dangerous intensity.
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Chapter 50: Making Sure He Eats Something
“My friend today…” I started, desperate to change the subject. “Ruby Scoff we were classmates at Columbia, She’s been working as a war correspondent in Africa, just got back…
Is that why you didn’t stay out longer? He settled into one of the other chairs, his presence somehow managing to fill the entire
room
“You had dinner at the Stark mansion, right?” The question tumbled out before I could stop it.
His expression shifted slightly, something dark flickering belind
“You didn’t eat?” Concern overrode my nervousness. “Brandon! How can you skip meals? That’s not good for your health!”
He studied me with that unsettling focus. “I wasn’t hungry.”
*But you went to the mansion…” I trailed off as his expression closed off completely.
Without another word, I headed for the kitchen. The food I’d picked up from the new French place downtown would only need minimal reheating. I’d ordered it after our phone call earlier, but then he’d suddenly needed to go to the Stark mansion. I’d thought the food would go to waste, but now… At least I can make sure he eats something. The thought brought an unexpected smile to my
face.
What did you get?” His deep voice behind me made me jump
“Just… whatever looked good.” I gestured vaguely at the containers. Have you washed your hands?”
He nodded, accepting the plate I handed him, “Join me?
“I already ate with Ruby.” But I found myself settling into the chair across from him anyway, unable to resist watching as he ate with that unconscious elegance that seemed to define his every movement.
His dark eyes caught mine.
Heat flooded my cheeks. “Ruby wants to meet you, I blurted out, desperate to change the subject. But if you’re too busy, it’s fine!! She just… wants to make sure I’m okay.”
“When?”
“Whenever works for you…” I twisted my fingers nervously. “It won’t be too much trouble?
“No.” His lips curved into that dangerous half–smile. “It’s rare for you to want to introduce me to your friends.
ou should have eaten at the mansion!
must be starving!” I couldn’t help noticing how quickly he was finishing the food. “You
“Indeed.” The way he said it soft but intense–made
de my skin prickle.
Later, as I lay in bed exchanging voice messages with Ruby about dinner plans, I couldn’t help smiling at her enthusiasm.
Come on, bring that husband of yours out! Ruby’s voice carried through my phone speaker. “If he can give you a Porsche, H afford the best restaurants in Manhattan!”
He is pretty successful…” I sent back, trying to keep my voice down.
Then lets hit the most expensive places! Make him work for it!”
I laughed, holding down the voice message button. “Foodie! So… Per Se or Le Bernardin?”
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Chapter 50: Making Sure He Eats Some
“Per Se.” Brandon’s voice from the doorway made me yelp and nearly drop my phone.
“You were standing there the whole time?” I tried to sound stern despite how my heart raced at his sudden appearance.
“You were talking quite loudly.” His dark eyes danced with barely suppressed amusement.
“That’s still…” I huffed, then paused. “Wait, so… Per Se?”
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