"That was accidental," Layla pointed out, keeping her voice steady but her pulse racing.
"I don't think so," Lucius replied, his grin widening as he stepped closer. "You want to claim me, don't you? Don't be shy. I'm all yours. Since you're aiming to be a good wife, why not start by giving me a little pleasure?" His fingers lightly tucked a strand of her hair behind her ear, his touch lingering.
"Being a good wife doesn't mean I'm obligated to focus on that alone," Layla countered, trying to keep her composure. She didn't want to provoke him, especially after catching sight of the gun he casually carried. She needed his help for her own ambitions, and antagonizing him now could ruin everything.
Lucius raised an eyebrow, his gaze sharp. "Are you serious, Layla? Do you realize what you're doing to me right now?" His hand slid up her thigh, giving it a firm squeeze that made her gasp softly. He began tracing slow, deliberate circles on her skin, his eyes never leaving hers.
Layla swallowed, fighting to stay calm. "Why don't we start by getting to know each other better?" she suggested, trying to divert his attention. If she could just shift the conversation, maybe she could create some distance. "I only know your name and a little about your work. We barely know anything personal about each other."
Lucius smiled, clearly entertained by her attempt to stall. He already knew more about her than she probably realized. But hearing her speak was far more enjoyable.
"Fine," he agreed, leaning back slightly.
"Wonderful!" Layla clasped her hands together, cautiously optimistic. "Shouldn't you let me go then?" she asked, hoping he'd take the hint.
His smirk deepened. "I think this position is perfect for getting to know each other."
'He's harder to manage than I thought,' Layla mused, but at least he was cooperating for now. She needed to play her cards right. "Alright then," she continued, keeping her tone light. "Tell me, why didn't you marry earlier? Was there someone you loved? Have you ever had a crush on anyone?"
"I didn't expect you to jump straight to those questions," Lucius remarked, a hint of amusement in his voice. "I never found anyone who could handle me properly. No, I've never been in love. Though, I did have a crush once—four years ago."
"Who?" Layla asked, her curiosity piqued. "Why didn't you approach her? Don't you know love sparks when two people connect? That woman might have been your wife by now," she suggested, a playful glint in her eyes.
Lucius chuckled, clearly entertained by her teasing. "You're probably right. But I didn't think much of it at the time. Besides, now I have you—someone eager to be my loyal and devoted wife," he replied, his smirk never leaving his face.
"Yes!" Layla smiled, trying to play along with his game. But her thoughts quickly shifted, and she decided to test the waters. "Your father doesn't seem to approve of what you do. Do you dabble in illegal activities? I'd rather know ahead of time so I can avoid getting involved."
Lucius's eyes darkened slightly as his grin faded into something more dangerous. "That's disappointing, wife. You vowed to stand by me in every situation. Are you already looking for a way out?"
"No," Layla quickly clarified, keeping her tone neutral. "I'm saying I don't like to be involved in things that go against my ethics."
Lucius raised an eyebrow. "Bold words for someone standing in front of me. Yet, in front of your family, you never spoke with such dignity and moral certainty."
Her expression shifted, her eyes betraying a flash of pain. Lucius had hit a nerve. He continued, his voice taking on a sharper edge. "You endured abuse and torment for years, never finding the strength to stop it. Don't you think my methods are more effective?"
"I couldn't live with myself if I killed someone," Layla retorted, her voice firm, though her heart raced at the thought of his power.
Lucius leaned in further, his eyes sharp as they bore into hers. "Who said I killed anyone? Did you see it with your own eyes? Or are you just feeding into rumors?" His voice was low, almost a whisper, yet it held an unmistakable challenge.
"Ah... I... I..." Layla stammered, her words faltering as she struggled to come up with a response. Nothing concrete came to her mind.
Lucius chuckled softly, brushing a stray lock of hair from her face. "Relax," he said, his tone softening slightly. "I don't engage in anything illegal. Rest assured, your husband will keep you safe from any danger." His smirk returned, more sinister this time. "Though, you should know— I am the danger people should avoid."
He leaned closer, inhaling the faint scent of her natural fragrance, lingering just long enough to make her heart race. "We'll have a reception party soon," he continued, his voice smoother now. "After that, we'll go on our honeymoon. You can pick the place. But first..." He straightened up, his expression turning serious. "I need to wrap up some of my work."
"Sure, finish all your work. That's more important," Layla responded, forcing a smile as she agreed. In her mind, however, she was already plotting ways to avoid the honeymoon.
Lucius seemed pleased with her response. "Let's go out for dinner this evening," he suggested casually.
"Okay," Layla nodded. "Now, you can let me go," she added, hoping for some space.
"Kiss me, and I will," Lucius demanded, his eyes gleaming with amusement.
With little choice, Layla leaned in and pressed her lips briefly against his before pulling away.
Lucius raised an eyebrow, clearly unimpressed. "Do it properly," he insisted, his tone teasing but firm. "I've taught you enough by now."
Swallowing her frustration, Layla knew that dealing with Lucius would take more patience than she had imagined. She leaned in again, this time kissing him with more intent, gently nibbling on his lips. Lucius responded with equal fervor, deepening the kiss, his hand slipping behind her head to hold her in place when she tried to pull away.
He didn't let go until he was satisfied, leaving them both gasping for air when they finally broke apart.
"I'll see you this evening," Lucius said, a smirk tugging at the corner of his lips. He gently pushed her back onto the bed and, with one last glance, left the room, leaving Layla in a daze—both her heart and mind racing with an unknown feeling.