Chapter 438

Hannah jerked back, slipping deftly out of Vincent's grasp. She retreated two quick steps, putting a gulf of air between them, her chest rising and falling like ripples on restless water. "I'm not interested in sleeping with my ex-husband!"

Vincent's lips curved, the smile edged with danger."How can you be so certain when you never give it a try?"

Again, he moved closer, his tall frame pressing down with unspoken weight, eyes fixed stubbornly on her lips.

As he advanced, a spark of defiance lit in Hannah's heart. Rather than shrinking back, she lifted her chin,her gaze teasing, daring. "I prefer younger men-the ones with silver tongues and sweet words. Before Vincent could counter, she spun, plucked a neatly bound booklet from the shelf, and tossed it at him. "Have a look." She pointed. "My list of first-rate flings! Youthful, lively, and far more entertaining than you."

In truth, it was nothing more than Adrian's list of candidates for game brand ambassadors.

Vincent glanced at it, his face unreadable. She actually kept a list of her hookups? Jealousy stabbed him like a thorn. Without pause, he seized her wrist and tugged her sharply toward him.

Off balance, Hannah tumbled onto his lap.

Vincent's other hand clasped the back of her neck,and in one fierce motion, he captured her lips, prying them open with sheer will.

"Mmm..." Hannah pressed against his solid chest,twisting her head, desperate to escape the searing heat of his kiss.

But Vincent was relentless, holding her firmly as if" the world itself might slip away.

At last, he loosened slightly, their lips parting for breath, his voice ragged. "Your reaction... It doesn't look like someone accustomed to flings."

Hannah's chest heaved as she shoved at him. "I don't kiss my hookup partners!"

"Is that so?" His gaze darkened, grip tightening as he drew her closer. "Then check my kissing skills. See if you're satisfied."

Before she could argue, he lowered his head once more, sealing her lips. This time, the kss burned less like fire and more like slow, molten honey-lingering,deep.

Hannah struggled fiercely, yet under his storm of passion, her strength ebbed away.

The heat between them rose like a tide. Lips and tongues tangled, bodies locked with scarcely a breath of space left.

Vincent's hand roamed over her slender waist, unrestrained.

Just as they teetered on the edge of losing control, a sharp knock at the door shattered the spell.

Hannah jolted back, shoving him away.

Caught off guard, Vincent toppled onto the sofa.

Hannah straightened her collar in haste and strode to the door. "Who's there?"

Outside, Addie's bright voice rang out."Ms. Scott!It's me,Addie-bringing your dinner!"

Hannah drew a long breath before opening the door.

By then, Vincent had already slipped into the bathroom, frustration etched across his face.

Addie set the tray neatly on the table, picked up the earlier lunchbox with practiced hands, and left.

Hannah immediately picked up her fork and knife,eating without hesitation.

Vincent emerged only after the door had closed. He walked over, brows knitted. "You still have an appetite?"

Hannah's tone was calm, steady as stone. "Why wouldn'tl?"

Vincent stared, Adam's apple bobbing, his voice low,rough, strained. "I'm completely turned on."

Her eyes stayed cool. "Shall I call someone to help you? One woman, or two?"

Vincent's face darkened, humiliation and fury flashing in his eyes. Without another word, he stormed back into the bathroom.

The crash of water soon followed, echoing with his frustration, the bandage on his hand washing away in the torrent.

Hannah's lips curved into a faint smile.

By the time Vincent reappeared, she had finished her meal and sat calmly on the sofa, working on her laptop. He pulled on a T-shirt, silent for a beat, and then spoke at last. "There's something I must tell you.Something I've just confirmed."