Chapter 47

Once I was dressed in fresh clothes, I pulled her into my arms, sitting on the edge of the bed while she stood between my legs. My hands traced slow circles over her hips, my lips brushing over her collarbone before trailing lower. I pressed a kiss to each of her nipples, then her stomach, savoring the warmth of her skin.

When I looked up, her eyes were shining—not just with desire but with something deeper.

“I love you,” I murmured, my voice steady and certain. “With all my heart.”

Her breath hitched, and for a moment, she simply stared at me as if memorizing my face. Then, her lips trembled, and tears welled in her eyes.

“I feel the same,” she whispered, brushing her fingers through my hair. “So much, John.”

She leaned down, pressing a lingering, emotion-filled kiss to my lips before slowly pulling away.

“I should get dressed before I get distracted again,” she said, her voice still thick with emotion.

I chuckled, letting my hands fall from her waist as she stepped back. I watched as she disappeared into the walk-in closet, listening as she hummed softly to herself while picking out her outfit.

A few moments later, she emerged, dressed in something that made my breath catch.

She had chosen a pair of fitted black leggings that hugged every curve and a soft, off-the-shoulder knit sweater in a deep shade of burgundy. The fabric draped loosely over one shoulder, exposing just enough skin to keep my mind wandering. The way the sweater fell over her frame made her look effortlessly sensual, the contrast between the cozy knit and the way it clung to her body making it even more enticing.

She spun slowly. “Comfortable but still tempting. What do you think?”

I smirked. “You know exactly what you’re doing.”

She winked. “Of course I do.”