Chapter 26: Chapter 26

ARIEL POV

It was three weeks. Three weeks of mixed emotions, anxiety, sadness, happiness, and disappointment. I wasn't sure what to conclude, seeing Ryan finally soft and saying thank you to me. It felt as if my heart somersaulted.

I was happy within me. My communication with my dad had been regular, even though it was risky. My stepmom was not aware he gave me his contact information. All in one, I was glad our relationship was getting better.

But still, every time we spoke, he kept reminding me of the secret he wanted to open to me about. It only brought this bitter feeling at the pit of my stomach. One thing I know for sure was that revealing that secret might make our relationship drawback. I do not want that.

“I should have said that a long time ago. Pardon me.” He spoke gently.

“Not a problem. Glad you said it now.” I admitted, licking my lips and determinably, pressing away the picture of my dad revealing his secret to me.

“Thanks for understanding. I enjoyed this meal. It is one of my favorites.” I blushed, as he continued eating.

Yes, I know. I felt like saying that. I got that secret to one of his favorite meals from the diary his mum gave me.

It still got me thinking that Ryan could be cajoled like this. When he is angry, the best method is not to always fight fire with fire, but rather fire with water.

“Glad you enjoyed it. I will be preparing dinner for both of us then.” I put in, as his eyes cut to mine.

He nodded, his lips curved into a smile.

“I hope it won't be stressful for you. I had to let Mrs. Greta go, as I dislike maids around for some reasons.” He spoke, prompting me to think on his latter words for a while.

Does that mean he had an ugly story to tell about Maids? Mrs. Greta seemed like a nice woman, but I do respect Ryan's view.

“I understand. Cooking is no stress for me.” We both shared a smile before continuing to munch on the meal.

He finished up in no time.

“I want to round up my work before going to bed.” He stood up, before sitting on one of the sofas.

I kept glancing as he was busy with his laptop. He seemed so tired, yet working. If he keeps going at this pace, I'm aware he might break down anytime soon.

After clearing the table and making sure to wash the dishes, I left for the room. The one Ryan left me in. I glanced at the diary once again as a thought came in. I felt my face flush at my thoughts.I wanted us to consummate our marriage.

Making sure I took a long bath, I came out of the bathroom, putting on lingerie. It exposed my thighs and cleavage. I allowed my hair to dry up a bit. I waited by the door, and when Ryan finally opened the door to the next room, I decided it was time.

Furthermore, I breathe in and out gently, not sure if I was making the right decision or not. I wanted to play the role of a wife in a marriage. Even though Ryan doesn't love me, I feel he might have some attraction for me.

Taking one last breathing exercise, before heading to his room, I decided to take the bull by the horn. His room was quiet except for the sound of water dripping from the shower.

Ryan was bathing. I allowed myself to settle on his bed, as I felt my chest doing that shitty thing where it felt too tight, or too full.

The door opened, revealing Ryan. My gaze slowly moved downward, following the motion of the water droplets. I had anticipated he had a nice built body, but I never expected his body to be this good.

He had the perfect whitish skin tone, not to mention his toned muscles that made up his body. He wasn't exaggeratedly muscular like a bodybuilder, but every part of his body was well-defined.

I lowered my gaze further and noticed his toned waist, which the towel he partially draped hid a bit. I felt my body suddenly grow warm.

RYAN POV

Surprise was boldly written on my face at the sight of Ariel in my room. Seeing her in lingerie, blocked away my thoughts of reasoning, stopping my lips from moving.

Instead, I felt my heartbeat increase, a lump in my throat. I watched as she approached me, making me speechless.

Her soft hand held mine, causing a throb down there. At that moment was when I realized I had been standing for a while, as I was left dazzled by her sexy lingerie.

“Please sit.” She spoke, as I sat, before she sat beside me.

I blinked, as our gaze met each other.

She leaned closer, as her lips met mine. My body heated up instantly as her body settled on my lap.

I was more shocked, as her lips moved on mine. The kiss wasn't rough. It was slow, soft, and sweet, but I knew I needed to break out of this trance as soon as possible.

Her hand was behind my neck, as she pulled me closer, as her bosom was pressing hard against my chest.

I broke the kiss immediately, lifting Ariel off my body.

“We can't do this. We can't have sex.” I stated, as a wave of embarrassment was painted on Ariel's face.

She moved back, darting her eyes downward. I knew she was upset.

“I shouldn't have tried to initiate it. I just thought you wanted it.” She paused, trying to ready her breathing.

“I should leave.” She stood up, but I held her instantly as her butt hit the bed.

“Look at me.” Her eyes met mine, as I let out a frustrated sigh.

How the hell was I supposed to explain to her that I only stopped what was about to happen because I would rather not get her hurt in the end. I am a confused fellow. I might seem to be at peace with her tonight, but what about tomorrow? What if I change back to my cold self.

Parting my lips to speak, she looked away shyly.

“You are beautiful and as much as I find you attractive in some sense, we can't have any relation between us, not until we both want it.” I breathed out, hoping she would get it.

Even though I wanted to remind her of the contract between us, I held myself from talking about it.

“I understand. I should go to my room. You look tired.” She smiled at me, as I reciprocated.

“Goodnight Ariel.”

“Goodnight Ryan.” She left the room, leaving me to bask with my thoughts.

I slumped on the bed, trying to erase the imagination of Ariel's lips on mine. Wow, she keeps surprising me. This was the first time she initiated a kiss between us, and knowing she was still a virgin prompted me to stop. I can't allow my carelessness to jeopardize her happiness.

I changed into my pajamas, as I got out of my room. I knocked on the other room, as her small voice beckoned me to come in.

I entered the room, which was more spacious than my personal room. I glanced around for a while before my gaze landed on her. She was no longer in her lingerie, but rather in a free gown.

“Can I spend the night here?” She chuckled, probably wondering why I had to ask for permission.

“Sure.” She smiled.

I walked to the other side of the bed, as her back was facing me.

She turned abruptly, her lips still holding that gracious smile. She doesn't look angry at me,' I thought.

“I want to ask you something.” Her words piqued my interest, blurring my other thoughts.

“Sure, please go on.” I moved closer towards her.

She turned fully as her legs were crossed on the bed.

“Would you like to go on a date with me?” She dropped the bombshell.

I stared back at her in amazement, as my brows furrowed.

'Wow, she is bold too,' I concluded