W-what do you think you re doing? she asked, trying to sound unbothered, though her voice had gone slightly shaky.

He smirked. Funny You re the one who said I was scared. But from where I m standing, it looks like you re the one trembling.

I m not scared, Linsey retorted, lifting her chin defiantly. I said what I said. If you ever dare to leave me, I will ruin your reputation.

Collin s voice dropped, deep and velvety. I wouldn t dare. Then, in one fluid motion, he pulled her even closer, until she could feel the heat of his breath against her skin.

To stop you from spreading such dangerous rumors, he whispered, I suppose tonight I ll have to prove just how wrong you are about me.

His voice, low and magnetic, threaded through her like silk and flame intoxicating, impossible to ignore. And just like that, Linsey forgot how to breathe.

Linsey s cheeks burned with renewed heat, the blush spreading like wildfire. Flustered, she tried to explain, her voice trembling. I didn t actually mean it when I said you were impotent. I was just teasing, trying to threaten you Her voice tapered off to a whisper, the words dissolving into the air.

Collin tilted his head slightly, a thoughtful gleam in his eyes. Hmm so it was just a threat. Good to know you still think I m good in bed.

Linsey nearly screamed internally. Even without a mirror, she could feel the heat radiating from her face, knowing it must be a deep crimson.

Meanwhile, Collin remained perfectly composed, his demeanor cool and infuriatingly collected like a master puppeteer gently tugging at the strings of her emotions.

She closed her eyes, a wave of frustration washing over her. Why was she always the one left speechless, flustered, exposed? It felt like he had her completely wrapped around his little finger.

The more she thought about it, the more her pride rebelled. Taking a steadying breath, she pulled herself together and, with a calm flick of her hair, said coolly, Yes, you re definitely good in bed. Otherwise, why would I have married you?

Collin raised an eyebrow, his gaze sharpening. Is that really the reason you married me?

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What else? Linsey shrugged with mock defiance. You re easy on the eyes, your physique is decent, and you re obviously in good shape. With all that going for you, how could I not fall for you?

A sly smirk tugged at Collin s lips. So you re shallow, is that it?

Absolutely. Linsey gave him a playful wink. I don t care much about what s inside. As long as the guy s good-looking, strong, and has stamina

Before she could finish her daring remark, Collin suddenly pressed her down onto the seat cushion, his tall frame casting a shadow over her.

Collin what are you doing? Her voice was a mix of panic and disbelief, her earlier teasing now coming back to haunt her.

Just doing what needs to be done, he said, his eyes dark with intent.

That look Linsey recognized it all too well. Her heart skipped a beat.

As he leaned in, Linsey s breath caught.

What was he thinking? Was he really about to do this now, with people nearby? On instinct, she raised her hand, prepared to swat him away.

But before she could react further, a gentle kiss landed softly on her forehead. Time seemed to freeze.

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