DEADLY DECEPTION

CHAPTER 36

(AVERY'S POV)

I stirred, warmth wrapping around me like a cocoon. My body ached in places I didn't even know could ache, and the second I shifted, a deep soreness reminded me exactly why.

My face flamed. Oh god.

Last night.

I peeked up through heavy lashes, my cheek pressed against Rick's bare chest. His arm was draped lazily around my waist, holding me like he had no plans of letting go anytime soon. His scent—cologne and something purely him—was imprinted into my skin, intoxicating.

My eyes trailed over his sharp features, his breathing slow and steady. Asleep.

I bit my lip, hesitating for a second before lifting a hand and softly poking his cheek. Once. Twice. Nothing. His brows didn't even twitch.

I inhaled deeply, stealing a breath of his scent, before I couldn't help myself and snuggled into his chest, pressing my face into the warmth of his skin.

A deep exhale left his lips.

"Ahhh... what am I gonna do with you?"

I stiffened.

My head snapped up to find Rick's eyes open, watching me with a lazy, amused look.

Busted.

I swallowed back my embarrassment before chuckling softly.

"You were awake?"

His lips twitched. "For a while."

I smacked his shoulder, making him smirk.

Before I could roll away, he tugged me closer, burying his face in my neck. His lips brushed against my skin—soft, lazy kisses. I melted against him despite myself, letting him hold me in the quiet morning light.

His grip tightened. "How do you feel?"

Like I got hit by a truck. Then backed over for good measure.

I swallowed. "Sore."

His chest vibrated with a low chuckle. "Good."

I groaned, smacking him again. Smug bastard.

Before I could fight back properly, he sat up, pulled me into his arms, and lifted me effortlessly.

I squeaked, arms looping around his neck. "Rick—"

"Bath," he muttered simply, carrying me to the bathroom.

Warm steam filled the space as Rick lowered me into the tub, his hands never leaving my skin. He took care of me in silence—washing my hair, running slow, methodical strokes over my arms, my back. His touch, despite its roughness, was almost... gentle.

And the worst part? I didn't want him to stop.

I watched as his calloused fingers traced over my bruised thighs, his jaw tightening.

"You okay?" he asked quietly.

I nodded, sinking deeper into the warmth, my eyes never leaving his.

Satisfied, Rick leaned down and pressed a firm kiss to my temple.

And that was my undoing.

After the bath, Rick made sure I ate some fruit before dragging me downstairs.

The dining hall was already packed. Long tables stretched across the massive space, filled with at least fifty of Rick's men. The clatter of utensils, low murmurs, and the smell of fresh coffee filled the air.