Chapter 289

Austin sighed softly at Suzanne's startled expression. "Really? You're scared already?" Suzanne wanted to deny it, but the moment her eyes met his intense gaze, the words died in her throat. Austin reached out and tapped her nose lightly. "Sleep well, birthday girl," he whispered, his voice carrying a trace of indulgence. Though his arms were still wrapped around her, his eyes slowly drifted shut. Suzanne blinked, surprised that he was letting her go that easily. She glanced up at him, only to hear the steady rhythm of his breathing. He literally fell asleep within seconds. Suzanne's gaze lingered on Austin's face—the sharp bridge of his nose, the defined lines of his jaw, and the way his lashes curled ever so slightly. She had seen plenty of handsome men in her life, but none quite like Austin. His rugged yet refined features were unlike any she had ever encountered. Every detail of his face was exactly her type. Unable to resist, she reached out, her fingertips tr