Ariel discreetly observed Dominik during their meals, a multitude of questions swirling in her mind, though a reluctance to voice them held her back.
Observing her contemplative glances, Dominik directly inquired, "What's on your mind, Ariel? Why the covert glances?"
Ariel met his gaze with a sense of curiosity and ventured, "I initially thought you were an escort. What brought you to that event? Furthermore, what led you to marry me?" She had finally mustered the courage to seek answers.
Dominik methodically finished chewing his food and carefully set the fork and knife on the plate.
He used a napkin to delicately wipe his lips before explaining, "You should find solace in the fact that you're my first and will undoubtedly be my last. I was at the bar with friends when you accidentally shattered my million-dollar wine bottle, and then you offered me twenty dollars to spend the night with you. It turned into a passionate night, and you eagerly desired more, eventually agreeing to become mine. That's why I married you."
Ariel's brows furrowed, her grip tightening on the fork. "You knew me, yet you went along with it. I was intoxicated. You could have been a gentleman and sent me home," she muttered in disappointment.
Dominik chuckled with a smile. "Like a gentleman, I prevented another bastard from coming near you. I'm not a saint, who can control myself. I gave you what you desired last night and also like a good man, I took the responsibility by marrying you. You are mine and I'm yours, that's the vow you took when we became one," he stated. The smirk on his lips widened and he picked up the glass of wine.
Ariel found herself at a loss for words, still grappling with the consequences of her actions from the previous night. She reached for her glass of water, taking a sip to quell her unease.
Dominik, however, didn't seem phased by the situation. He casually remarked, "By the way, when you moan my name, you look even more alluring."
Ariel nearly choked on her water at his comment, her bewilderment evident in her gaze. She couldn't help but feel embarrassed about her behavior from the night before.
"Finish your meal, Darling," Dominik continued with a suggestive glint in his eye. "We have unfinished business to attend to."
Ariel felt a shiver run down her spine at Dominik's proposition. "And what if I decline?" she inquired cautiously.
Dominik's response caught her off guard as he calmly replied, "I won't push you. I won't force anything."
Ariel's heart raced, surprised by his unexpected answer. She had anticipated a different response from Dominik, and his respect for her choice left her feeling relieved.
Her momentous stare at him caused her to admire him internally. Once again, his charming allure attracted her to him.
"Ariel!"
As he suddenly pronounced her name, she came out of that trance and asked him what had happened.
"Finish your meals. You can stare at me as much as you want in the bedroom," Dominik suggested to her.
As Ariel lowered her gaze and quietly finished the remaining food on her plate, Dominik observed her with a warm smile playing on his lips. After their meal, he took the lead, guiding her back to the bedroom.
The click of the door closing behind her made Ariel's heart skip a beat. Before she could utter a word, she sensed Dominik's presence right behind her. His warm breath tickled her nape, and his long fingers gently traced a trail up her arms, causing her heart to race erratically.
"Are you absolutely certain you don't wish to indulge in love and pleasure tonight?" Dominik whispered seductively into Ariel's ear. His lips grazed her earlobe, prompting her to close her eyes.
Unbeknownst to her, a soft moan escaped her lips as he playfully bit her earlobe, following it with a sensual, teasing lick. A sly smirk graced Dominik's lips as he continued, "Your body betrays your mind, my dear. It's practically begging me to make it feel exquisite."
Ariel clenched her fists, resolute in her decision. "That's not true. I would like to freshen up before going to bed."
"Very well. Allow me to help you with your dress," Dominik offered, taking hold of the zipper. Without resistance, Ariel allowed him to unzip her gown.
As Dominik's warm finger traced her spine, sending a shiver through her, Ariel couldn't help but wonder why his touch had such a powerful effect on her. It was a perplexing sensation she couldn't quite comprehend. His every move seemed otherworldly, tempting her to surrender to him.
Yet, she fought to keep her thoughts in check. Ariel reminded herself that she didn't love Dominik, even though he was now her husband. She was determined not to let his burning touch sway her emotions.
However, was that easy? Everything about Dominik made her feel weak. She wasn't able to move away from her place when his lips touched her shoulder.
"I saw you in your full glory last night. You possess an enchanting allure," Dominik whispered, his lips inching towards her neck. His fingers delicately caressed her back.
Ariel, however, managed to regain her composure and gently moved away from him, her hands instinctively shielding her chest to prevent her gown from slipping. "I'll go take a shower," she mumbled, seeking to put some distance between them.
"Alright. Let me find something for you to wear. Your closet isn't prepared yet," Dominik said, and he headed to the closet. He returned with a shirt in hand. "Put this on for tonight, Ariel."
The mere sound of her name from Dominik always seemed to stir something inside her. Ariel hurriedly accepted the shirt from him and hastily made her way to the bathroom.
Meanwhile, Dominik left for the other bathroom after gathering his own nighttime attire.
Under the shower, Ariel found solace. She was no longer upset by the fact that Adrian cheated on her. She was more curious about Dominik now. "Why does my body react differently around him? I created such a big trouble for myself," she mumbled and ran her hands through her face.