Bella's POV
His palm glided along my arm in slow, deliberate strokes before his hand left my stomach, gently pressing me forward until my back was against him.
I felt his fingertips find the zipper of my dress, drawing it downward with agonizing slowness.
The moment his skin touched my bare back, I tensed and pulled away slightly.
A low laugh escaped him, but his fingers continued their exploration across my exposed flesh.
His touch was hypnotic as his hands found my bra clasp, undoing it with practiced ease.
My breath caught as the fabric loosened, freeing my breasts. He slid the straps of my dress down my shoulders, exposing my bra to the cool air before settling back against the couch.
He drew me closer until I was leaning against him while he sat on the couch edge, his intense gaze meeting mine.
"I have missed you beyond words," he murmured, his expression pained as he stared into my eyes.
