Chapter 243

Chapter 243:

Austin’s breath grew deep and uneven as he swiftly hoisted Brinley, her legs circling his waist, her back pressed against the cool tiles.

The chilly surface sent a shiver through her, only heightening her sensitivity to the warmth radiating from him.

Her fingers grazed his solid back, the muscles rippling subtly with each movement, pulsing with vibrant energy.

Brinley’s pulse raced as she traced his toned frame, her touch soft yet deliberate. From his broad shoulders to his chest, his skin exuded a rugged masculinity.

Austin’s muscles tightened faintly under her caress, his breathing turning more ragged.

𝘞𝘦𝘦𝗄𝘭𝘆 r𝖾𝗹𝗲а𝘴𝘦𝗌 𝘰𝗻

“Enjoying this?” he teased with a low chuckle, his lips brushing warmly against her neck.

Brinley’s face warmed at his words, but she gave a shy nod. With another laugh, he gently nipped her earlobe and murmured, “If you’re into it, explore more p>

His playful tone softened her further, and her hands roamed with growing confidence, relishing the firm warmth of his body as her heart pounded wildly.

Stirred by her touch, Austin’s restraint wavered.

He carried her to the bathtub, his eyes locked on hers.

With a soft splash, they tumbled into the warm water. It soaked Brinley’s clothes, the thin fabric clinging to her curves—both alluring and subtle.

Austin’s breath hitched as he gazed at her: wet hair framing her face, eyes hazy, lips full and rosy.

Unable to hold back, he kissed her deeply, his hands deftly unbuttoning her shirt.

As the fabric fell away, her soft skin emerged, trembling slightly before easing under his tender kisses.

Brinley’s arms looped around his neck once more, eagerly meeting his kiss.

Their movements sent gentle waves through the tub, shimmering across the surface.

Austin’s lips traveled from her mouth to her throat, then down to her chest, leaving a trail of warm, damp traces.

Brinley’s breath quickened as her body yielded, pressing closer to him, surrendering to his touch.

Just as Austin’s fingers reached lower and anticipation thickened the air, he suddenly stopped.

He lifted his head, the fire in his gaze softening into something more intricate.

“What is the matter?” Brinley asked, her eyes still clouded with desire.

Austin drew a steadying breath, forcing himself to calm down.

His hand grazed her cheek, his expression tender. “We can’t do this right now, Brinley p>

She froze, confusion flickering across her face. “Why not p>

His tone was heartfelt. “I won’t take this step if you’re not fully ready—not in a place like this.” He paused, his gaze firm with resolve. “I want to wait for the right moment. A setting that’s special, where you can give yourself to me completely p>

Brinley met his earnest eyes, warmth flooding her chest.

She understood the depth of his care and respect.

Wrapping her arms lightly around his neck, she pressed her face into his shoulder, her voice thick. “Thank you, Austin p>

He pulled her close, his chin resting atop her head. “Why are you thanking me, you silly girl p>

The water in the tub grew cool, but they paid it no mind, holding each other and listening to the steady rhythm of their heartbeats.

After a time, Austin eased her back and adjusted her clothes. “It’s getting chilly. Let’s get out before you catch a cold p>

He draped a towel around himself and lifted Brinley, her arms instinctively circling his neck.

The short climb from the second to the third floor felt endless to her, the scent of his body wash enveloping her senses. His warm breath grazed her forehead, and when he glanced at her, his throat bobbed subtly. “Scared I’ll drop you p>

“Not a bit,” she murmured, nestling deeper into his hold, her ears flushing softly.

Though their earlier closeness in the bathroom had been intense, this moment made her heart race even more—his bare chest’s warmth radiating through the towel, stirring a nervous excitement.

Austin nudged open the door to the third-floor bedroom, lit only by the soft glow of the bedside lamp.

He set Brinley down with care, his fingers brushing her knee. She flinched as if touched by flame.

“Easy now,” he whispered. “Go change out of your damp clothes p>

Brinley nodded and slipped into the walk-in closet.

As the door shut, she leaned against its cool surface and exhaled in relief, her hand lifting to her warm cheeks.

The mirror showed her slightly swollen lips—remnants of their heated encounter in the bathroom.