IVORY POV
The kitchen was a sprawling expanse of stainless steel and white marble, looking more like a set from a cooking show than a home. Before I could even find my footing, Daniel reached out. His hands found my waist, and with a strength that always caught me off guard, he carefully guided me to the center island and gently lifted me up, seating me right on the kitchen counter.
I immediately panicked, my heart thudding against my ribs like a trapped bird. Being at eye level with him was dangerous; those deep blue eyes were peering right into mine, and his closeness was literally making me lose my senses.
"What are you doing?" I squeaked, my hands bracing against the cold marble.
"Relax, Ma belle," he murmured, his voice a low vibration that I felt in my bones. He reached behind me
