#Chapter 98: Temptation

His expression turned tender before wrapped his arm around my shoulders.

“Okay, let’s get you back to bed,” he said, pressing a kiss to my temple.

Vanessa let out a little laugh as Candido walked with me back to the room I’d been given.

As soon as the door closed behind us, Candido dug into his jacket and pulled out a small knife. I stopped him before he could slit his palm. I pulled the knife from his hand and tucked it back into his jacket.

“No.”

He stiffened his jaw. “Hedy, I know what my aunt said, but you have to know that I—”

“Usually listen to absolutely no one,” I said.

“I am perfectly fine.” His voice was firm, but his eyes were red-rimmed and sunken into his face. There were dark circles around his eyes, and he looked ready to fall asleep at any time.

“All I want right now is to snuggle with you.” I looked up at him. “Can’t you just give me this? It’s less painful.”

His nostrils flared. “That’s not a good idea.”

“Why?”

“Because I want you desperately.” He said. “And you’re n