The aphrodisiac was working — I could see the flush creeping up his neck, the way his pupils had begun to dilate. His scent sharpened, heavy with unwanted heat and raw frustration. I stepped closer, letting my own scent bloom in response. “Matteo… you look tense. Let me help you. We’re alone now.”
His jaw clenched so hard I heard the faint grind of teeth. He took one deliberate step backward, maintaining the distance between us. “Don’t,” he growled, voice rough but controlled. The Alpha authority in it sent a shiver through me, but not the kind I wanted,
I blinked, feigning innocence even as victory sang in my veins. “Darling, How about—”
“Save it.” He turned sharply, pacing to the window with rigid, predatory grace. His hands flexed at his sides, knuckles white. The drug was clearly r
