I Want To Know You

"Lord Rainier?" she called out, moving forward in an attempt to free herself, but Lucian's free hand circled around her waist, pulling her back firmly against his chest.

She could feel his breath over her head, his wild heartbeat thumping against her back, sending a shiver down her spine. This was more than just being close—why wasn't he letting her go?

"What are you doing?" she asked, her voice edged with confusion.

"I don't want you to leave," she heard him say, his deep voice resonating straight through to her heart.

Her brows knitted in frustration. "Lord Rainier—"

"Lucian," he interrupted her softly. "I'd like you to call me by my name like you used to."

"That wouldn't be appropriate. You're a lord now."

"And this lord is giving you permission to call him by his name."

She gritted her teeth, irritation flaring inside her. What right does this man have to act this way now?