Chapter 166

The bathroom door closed with a soft click, the sound echoing the sudden thump-thump of Emily's heart. Nicholas turned, his eyes locking with hers. The air in the small space crackled with unspoken desire. He reached out, his fingers tracing the line of her jaw, sending shivers down her spine.

"You're beautiful," he whispered, his voice husky.

The water was already running, a gentle hiss filling the room with steam. He didn't break eye contact as he slowly unbuttoned her blouse, each button a tiny release of the tension that had been building between them. Emily stood still, her breath catching in her throat, her own hands trembling as she reached up to meet his. The fabric fell away, revealing the soft curve of her shoulders.

He pulled her close, the warmth of his body radiating through her. He nuzzled her neck, his breath hot against her skin.