******
For a long moment, Damien just looked at her. His eyes traveled over her body slowly, deliberately, taking in every detail as if committing her to memory. The weight of his gaze was almost tangible, making her hyperaware of every inch of exposed skin.
"Do you have any idea how beautiful you are?" His voice was rough with desire. "Kneeling there, wearing my marks, completely bare for me. You look like every fantasy I've ever had."
His hand in her hair tightened slightly, controlling without hurting.
"But tonight isn't about me taking. Tonight is about me giving. About showing you what it feels like when someone worships your body the way it deserves."
He stood, pulling her up with him, and guided her toward the sofa. But instead of positioning her on it, he lowered himself to his knees on the plush carpet in front of it.
"Sit," he commanded, gesturing to the sofa edge. "Right here."
Aria sat, confused. "I don't understand...."
