Chapter Sevnty-One

Talia's POV:

Nicholas came back in the middle of the night. I must've been lightly sleeping because I woke up as soon as I heard the hushed murmur of conversation downstairs. His deeper tones were interspersed with Louis's more relaxed voice, and I had a strong suspicion I knew what they were talking about.

I sat up in bed, my heart racing in my chest. Getting up, I quickly pulled on the bathrobe and ran to the bathroom to freshen up. I didn't know why I cared about brushing my teeth right now, but I did. I wanted to be as awake and prepared as possible for whatever Nicholas decided to do to me. Then I just sat on the bed and waited.

Finally, the door to my room opened and Nicholas walked in. He looked exhausted, with dark circles under his eyes and a hint of stubble on his normally clean-shaven face. These flaws should've diminished his beauty, but they only elevated his appearance a bit, somehow enhancing his attractiveness.