Valentina hesitated for a moment, her mind warring with her body's desires. But as Lucian stepped closer, his presence overwhelming her senses, she found herself moving towards the bed as if in a trance. The silk sheets felt cool against her flushed skin as she settled back, watching Lucian through hooded eyes.
He moved with unnatural grace, like a predator stalking his prey. The mattress dipped as he crawled over her, his body hovering inches above hers. Valentina's breath hitched as she felt the heat radiating off him, the scent of him filling her nostrils - dark spices and danger.
Lucian's hand skimmed along her side, his touch feather-light yet searing. He slid his palm over her hip, fingers teasing the hem of her dress. Valentina shivered, goosebumps erupting across her skin. His touch was both foreign and familiar, awakening parts of her she didn't know existed.
"Relax," he purred, his cool breath fanning across her collarbone. "I promise I'll be gentle."