The next morning, Avery woke up in the warmth of Ethan's embrace. She could feel his strong arm draped around her waist, holding her protectively around him.
Turning slightly, she stole a glance at him. His sharp cheek bones accentuated by the gentle light, his strong well-defined jawline and his dark hair tousled from sleep framed his face perfectly, giving him an effortlessly handsome appearance. He looked like a demi-god and in that moment, she couldn't help but admire him.
As the soft morning light filtered through the curtains and warmed her skin, then she realized they were both naked beneath the covers. A rush of warmth enveloped her as the event of the previous night flooded her mind.
Avery's heart skipped as she remembered how Ethan made her feel and how she felt desired and cherished.
"What are you thinking about?" Ethan's husky voice broke through her thought as he opened his eyes to meet hers.
Caught off guard, Avery hesitated for a moment.
"I was just…. Thinking about last night,? She admitted as a blush creeped up her cheeks.
Avery bit her lip, her heart racing as she searched his eyes for unanswered question
"But it was just a night. It is still a contract marriage right?"
Ethan's expression softened and he reached out to tuck a loose strand of hair behind her ear.
"I know what we agreed on Avery, but I don't want to pretend last night didn't mean something to me. I want to know you my love.. I want to know you beyond the contract arrangement" he said as his face lit up in a grin, and he leaned in closer, brushing his lips against hers in a gentle kiss that sent sparks flying. He stood up and immediately lifted her up. Avery covered her face in shyness. He smirked as he saw Avery's reaction.
"Ethan! Put me down!" She protested as she buried her face in the crook of his neck, overwhelmed by the sudden rush of intimacy
"Not a chance." He replied with a playful tone as he stepped into the spacious bathroom. As he set her down on her feet, Avery peeked out from behind her hands. The large mirror reflected her image_two people who had shared a night of passion
"You're blushing," ethan remarked, with an amused smirk playing on his lips. He stepped closer to her, closing the distance between them. "It's adorable" he whispered softly to her ears.
"Stop it!" Avery exclaimed playfully. Her voice was filled with embarrassment as she tried to maintain her composure
"I can't help it. This is all new and.. unexpected".
Ethan Reached out and gently took her hands from her face. "You don't have to be shy with me, Avery. I am your husband now. Remember?"
Before she could respond,he turned on the shower, letting the water cascade down, filling the air with a soothing sound. The steam began to rise, creating a cozy atmosphere. The warmth of Ethan's body beside her combined with the soothing water created an electric atmosphere.
*
Harrison's eyes narrowed as he scrolled through the social media post featuring Avery and Ethan's wedding.
A mixture of emotions swirled within him_ Anger, jealousy and a hint of regret. He couldn't believe she had moved on so quickly, with someone as successful and charming as Ethan Blackwood.
His gaze lingered on Avery's smiling face. The thought of her happiness with someone else made him even more angrier. He loved Avery but being with it Emily will give him the connection required to secure his place in the business world.
Avery's father was a successful business man and had left vast empires that her step-mother had taken control of after his passing. Harrison had initially set his eyes on Avery hoping to tap into the family's wealth and influence. Upon realizing Avery's strained relationship with her step-mother would hinder his plan, he moved to Emily who offered a direct link to the family's power and influence. Hence, the decision to elope with Emily.
Although, he didn't end up marrying her, he hated that she moved on with someone more powerful and influential in less than a week of their marital scene.
"Why does she look so radiant? Why did Ethan have his arm around her and smiling like he owned her?"
His possessiveness and pride were wounded . The thought of Avery with another man fueled his desire to sabotage her happiness.