CHAPTER FORTY FOUR – DANGEROUS FLIRTATION

"You're exquisite," Julian murmured, as if plucking the thought from her mind. His thumb traced the fullness of her lower lip, wiping away the dampness there with achingly gentle reverence. "In utter ruins or high elegance, you've always been the most breathtaking creature to grace this drab world." A tremulous laugh escaped Charlotte's parted lips as she tipped her head back to meet his smoky gaze. "Save your flowery fictions for your philosophy texts, Jules...we both know I'm an absolute wreck." The smallest of smiles tugged at the corners of Julian's mouth as he gave a barely perceptible shake of his head. "Ever impossible to be flattered, dear Charlotte." His palms cradled her cheeks with exquisite tenderness, holding her immobile as his penetrating stare searched hers for...what? Permission? Assent? Acceptance of whatever inevitable inevitability their perpetual dance had been leading? Charlotte didn't resist as his mouth settled over her own in a long, searching caress. Thi