Chapter 93
How embarrassing!
Lyman’s gaze suddenly grew intense, his eyes burning as he gripped her hand tightly. His voice was low and rough. “Effie, are you sure?”
Effie nodded, nervous but certain. She didn’t want to run away anymore.
Lyman didn’t say another word. He simply pulled her gently into his arms and kissed her.
His warm breath brushed against her neck, sending a shiver of tingling electricity through her.
His kiss was both gentle and hungry, laced with a longing that had been held back for too long.
Effie’s heart pounded, her hands instinctively finding his shoulders as she melted into his embrace.
Their breaths mingled, the air between them thick with anticipation.
Lyman’s hand traced the curve of her back, his fingertips radiating heat through the thin fabric of her shirt, making her shiver uncontrollably.
Her mind went blissfully blank. All she could feel was this man and the storm of emotions he brought with him.
“Effie…” Lyman whispered her name, his forehead pressed to hers, his breath uneven. “You’re really sure you won’t regret this?”
She looked up and met his gaze—those deep, gentle eyes full of hope.
Effie bit her lip and shook her head. “I won’t… We’re married. This is how it’s supposed to be.”
A slow smile tugged at Lyman’s lips. He kissed her again, harder this time, as if he wanted to draw her completely into his world.
The intensity left Effie dizzy, her body turning to jelly as she leaned into him, letting him lead her.
His hands slid down to her waist, and with a gentle but firm touch, he scooped her up in his arms.
Effie gave a startled gasp, instinctively wrapping her arms around his neck and burying her face in his chest, too flustered to look at him.
“Lyman…” she whispered, her voice trembling with nerves.
“Don’t be scared. I’m right here,” he murmured, his tone deep and reassuring, calming her fears.
Carrying Effie, Lyman strode toward the bedroom, every movement steady and sure, as if she were the most precious thing in the world.
He closed the door behind them, leaving only the soft glow of the lamp and the sound of their mingled breaths. Lyman laid Effie gently on the bed and leaned over her, his gaze tender and smoldering.
“I’ll be gentle. There’s no need to be nervous,” he promised softly, every word wrapped in reassurance.
Effie’s cheeks burned crimson, but she summoned her courage and nodded. “I trust you.”
Lyman’s smile deepened, and he kissed her once more.
Effie closed her eyes and let herself drown in his tenderness.
Night deepened, and the only sounds left in the room were their quiet breathing and whispered words.
When morning came, Effie woke to find herself nestled in Lyman’s arms.
He held her close, his breathing slow and peaceful, still deep in sleep.
Effie shifted, trying to slip away, but his embrace only tightened.
“It’s the weekend. Sleep a little longer,” Lyman mumbled, sleepily pulling her even closer without opening his eyes.
Effie blushed again but stayed where she was, listening to the steady beat of his heart.
Memories of last night lingered sweetly in her mind, filling her with warmth and contentment.
Everything had happened so naturally, as if it was always meant to be.
Effie loved this feeling.
After last night, something between them had changed-they were closer than
ever.
And whatever doubts she’d had before, those old shadows cast by Isabel, had vanished like morning mist.