Chapter 5 Awaken

Nic's POV

The soft rise and fall of Deja's chest was hypnotic as she slept, tangled beneath the crisp white sheets of my penthouse bed. The morning light filtered through the tall windows, casting a warm glow on her skin-smooth, glowing, and breathtaking.

She looked so fragile. So untouched.

My fingers itched to trace the curve of her cheek, the swell of her collarbone, the gentle slope of her hips beneath the fabric.

I broke her virginity.

The thought made something inside me tighten-the fierce possessiveness, the dark satisfaction of knowing she was mine in a way no one else could claim.

I wanted to keep her close. Not just for the thrill, but because something in her softness cracked through the ice I'd built around my heart.

Slowly, I pulled her closer, wrapping an arm around her slender waist, feeling the warmth of her body press against mine.

She stirred slightly but didn't wake.

I let my hand rest lightly on her back, memorizing every inch-every breath, every heartbeat.

She's different from the other ladies have been with , I guess ,maybe she's too young

But I don't care I just want to keep her as mine

This was just the beginning.

⸻

Deja's POV

Light tickled my eyelids. I opened them slowly and found myself cradled in warmth-Nic's arms wrapped around me, steady and sure.

My breath caught.

He was still asleep, face peaceful and untouched by the usual hard edges he wore in daylight. His dark hair fell just so across his forehead, and the sharp line of his jaw was softened in slumber.

I couldn't look away.

Last night flashed vividly behind my eyes-the heat, the rush, the way he touched me like I was the only thing that mattered.

I traced my fingers gently over his bare arm, feeling the strong muscles beneath my skin. His steady breathing was a quiet rhythm I didn't want to break.

But reality crept in.

I needed to leave.

Gently, I brushed a fingertip across his cheek until his lashes fluttered open.

His dark eyes locked onto mine, heavy-lidded and curious.

"Morning," I whispered.

He smiled-a slow, knowing smile that sent a shiver down my spine.

"Morning," he said, voice husky.

"I... I have to go," I said, voice trembling.

He sat up, pulling me into a sitting position with him. "Before you leave, give me your number. And your bank details."

I blinked. "Bank details?"

He smirked . "I'm serious. I want to spoil you properly."

I hesitated but typed in the information he requested, my fingers shaking.

Nic's eyes softened. "I want to know you more, Deja. And I want to spend time with you-on my terms."

Before I could respond, my phone rang loudly on the nightstand.

I glanced at the screen: "Mom."

"Answer it," Nic urged quietly.

I swiped to accept. "Hello?"

"Deja, where are you? I told you be home before 8.you will be late for school ," my mother's sharp voice ordered. "I don't want any excuses."

I bit my lip. "Yes, Mom. I'll be home soon."

Nic raised an eyebrow. "School already?"

I nodded. "I have to go."

He smiled, a plan clearly forming. "I had a dress bought for you while you were asleep. It's waiting in the guest room."

I flushed, the thrill of luxury mingling with nerves.

I got up and started getting ready, the silk dress soft and foreign against my skin.

Nic offered to drive me home. I hesitated, then shook my head.

"I can manage."

He didn't argue.

Before I left, he pulled me close and kissed me-soft, possessive, claiming.

My knees nearly buckled.

Then I turned and walked out, the door clicking shut behind me.