God of Temptation

Chapter 54

~Remington~

The week glides by smoothly, I've got my game face on, determined not to trip over my own shoelaces or accidentally spill the emotional tea. But despite my best efforts, it's like the universe is whispering, "Hey, buddy, watch your step!"

Ariella and I fool around with each other, teasing and testing the waters. However, when it comes down to sex, I tread carefully. Deep down, I can sense that Ariella isn't quite ready for that level of intimacy. She says she wants it but then her eyes betray a flicker of hesitation whenever I inch too close. As much as I'd love to fuck her, I remain a gentleman, honoring the boundaries she sets.

Last week, I took Ariella out for ice cream. As we fooled around in the car, I couldn't help but wonder if this was how she felt during that kiss with Lyla. Even though it was vengeful and hateful kiss but the image of her lips on her is something I can't forget. Something that despite so many months the thought stirs frustration within me because the only person she should be intimate with is me.

"Remi, can you help me with this?" Ariella's voice catches me off guard, and I pivot to find her on tiptoes, precariously balancing a hefty box on her fingers—one wobble away from disaster.

I spring into action, rushing to her side and taking the burden into my own hands. "Be careful, Ariella, will you?" I chide gently.

She shoots me a playful look. "I've been doing this solo for weeks."

Guilt prickles at my conscience, but I know her words aren't meant to taunt. "Well, I'm here now, aren't I? Tell me."

"Eh, you won't be here for long. Aren't you supposed to leave in a few days?"

I set the carton down, standing tall as I close the gap between us. Her back meets the wall. "I'm not going anywhere."

Ariella gulps, her blue-green eyes searching mine. "What do you mean by that, Remi?"

I tug at a rebellious strand of her hair. "I mean I'm not leaving you, Ariella."

"But what about your PhD? Aren't you pursuing it?"

"Oh, I am. Just not in REU."

"Then where?"

"Right here with you, ma chérie." My thumb grazes her cheek, and she inhales sharply.

"Why?"

"Because I'm pulling the Astor move, babe."

"The Astor—what?"

"The Astor move. It involves following someone to the ends of the earth. And before you ask why I'd follow you to the ends of the world—well, beats me. What I do know is this: It's about connection, laughter, and the thrill of being your favorite person. I want to be the reason you snort milk out of your nose when I crack a silly joke. I want to be your midnight adventures partner, and the one who turns your hesitation into full-blown belly laugh. So, if that means abandoning everything and chasing after you to be that person, then I will."

I brush away a tear, but before I can finish, another one escapes. Now Ariella's tears flow freely. Sobs echo in the space between us, and I pull her into a tight embrace.

Ariella stands straight, her blue-green eyes glassy. She cups my face as she slowly strokes the light stubble that has grown on my face. I don't know what compels me, but I lean down and take her lips in a slow tantalising kiss. Her tongue invades mine tasting me. It's a slow sensual and passionate kiss. I can feel her pouring so many emotions into it. It's longing, obsession, want and so much love that I fear that my heart might burst because of it. I feel content and so fucking happy. It's the same kiss we had three months ago in my car before I broke her heart, however now it's the promise of a future together. From now on there won't be any parting. I will make a future with Ariella; I will fulfill my promise of making it permanent with her.

Ariella's hands start to explore my back and I push myself further into her. My front pressing against her. My mouth travels downwards to her neck as I start to nibble on the sweet taste of her skin which smells like my favorite jasmine and channel perfume.

This woman is fucking perfect, and I can't believe she is mine. I will burn down the entire world, ruin every single soul, and destroy anyone who dares to cast a sideways glance at her. Even, I don't know about the lengths I would go and the limits I would cross for her, if she gives me permission. It's peculiar, really. I thrive on control, yet here I am, relinquishing it willingly. Perhaps love is the ultimate rebellion against oneself.

I've always been Switzerland—neutral, detached. But for her, I'll play the role of a power imperialist. Power, wielded with ruthless tenderness. The world may tremble, but in her eyes, I'll be both villain and savior.

Morality? A mere whisper in the storm of desire. And as the flames lick the edges of existence, I'll stand there, unapologetic, my heart ablaze. And this includes those who make her feel unsafe or uncomfortable—they're already marked. Their fate sealed.