Chapter 390
Even after the car came to a halt, she remained slouched against the seat, showing no sign of getting up.
Brad stepped out, circled to the passenger side, opened the door, and leaned forward until his eyes met her drowsy gaze. He leaned in to unfasten her seatbelt, his broad hand bracing against the seat near her thigh, the closeness causing their breaths to mingle.
“Do you want me to carry you?”
Rylie’s lashes fluttered as she murmured, “Alright.”
A faint smile touched his lips before he bent down, gently gathering her into his arms. The night wind picked up, and the weather forecast predicted that the next few days would be affected by a typhoon with thunderstorms.
As he carried her through the doorway, a sudden flash of lightning bathed the sky in streaks of violet-blue, followed closely by a low, rolling thunder.
Brad brought her straight into his bedroom, gently setting her down on the bed. Seeing the tension on her brow, he reached out, his calloused fingers brushing against it. His voice was unusually soft as he asked, “Do you have a headache?”
“Yeah.” Rylie shut her eyes, pressing a hand to her temple. “This bed feels really nice.”
Brad arched a brow. “You prefer a firm mattress?”
“Yeah. Too soft isn’t good for your spine.” She shifted slightly, her face now mere inches from his, their lips nearly brushing. Her fingers reached up and traced the sharp line of his jaw, slowly gliding over the stubble.
“You should shave.”
“I’m…” Brad hesitated, holding his posture, bracing himself with one hand pressed against the bed. The angle strained his arm, but he made no move to pull away.
His throat shifted slightly as he swallowed, his eyes settling on her lips. “Want some honey water to sober up?”
Rylie withdrew her hand from his face and pushed herself upright. “I need a shower. I really stink.”
She had spent several nights sleeping at the lab to focus on her project. Though she’d kept clothes there, everything had already been packed and brought home once the program ended.
Brad stepped over to his wardrobe, pulling out a white shirt and a pair of lightweight shorts. Handing them to her, he said, “Just wear mine for now.”
Rylie accepted the clothes and made her way slowly toward the bathroom.
Brad trailed after her, his voice laced with concern. “Are you sure you’re okay?”
“I’ll manage.” Rylie massaged her temples. “Don’t worry.”
Only when he heard the steady rush of water behind the bathroom door did Brad finally relax. Assured she was capable of showering on her own, he turned and headed downstairs to prepare her some honey water.
The chef, still waiting in the kitchen, greeted him the moment he stepped in. “Morgan, would you like something to eat? I can make it for you.”
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