7• Crimson TEMPTATION 2

"Zafira, my Crimson", Azrael whispered and his voice was filled with intensity. 

Staring at her, he felt a fierce possessiveness rising in his chest and an overwhelming desire to claim her as his own.

As he traced her jawline with his thumb, thoughts of power and danger faded away and left only his need to protect her. 

In that moment, all that mattered was Zafira- the woman who had unknowingly awakened a new kind of obsession in him. 

He realized he would do anything to keep her by his side.

Zafira stirred slightly and her brows were furrowing as if sensing Azrael's presence. 

Her eyes fluttered open and for a moment, she was disoriented and was unsure of where she was. 

The soft glow of the room illuminated Azrael's intense gaze fixed on her and a rush of warmth flooded her cheeks.

"What are you doing here?", she asked and her voice was hoarse with sleep.

Azrael remained silent while his eyes were searching hers as if trying to uncover the secrets within.

He couldn't help but feel the magnetic pull between them deepen. 

"I just wanted to make sure you were okay", he finally replied as his tone was low and steady.

Zafira's heart raced as she was caught between confusion and a flicker of something more. 

The way he looked at her made her feel exposed, yet there was an undeniable allure that kept her rooted in place.

"You shouldn't be here", she murmured and trying to regain her composure but the warmth of his touch lingered on her skin.

"I know but it's my bedroom as well", he said softly and She pouted. 

Azrael chuckled softly as he leaned in closer and whispered, "and I can't help myself. You're... different".

Zafira felt a rush of emotions- fear, attraction, and the thrill of danger all swirled together. 

She wanted to pull away, yet something kept her drawn to him, like a moth to a flame.

"Mr. Sartori....", She began to speak but he put his fingers on her lips, "Sshhh! It's Azreal for you". 

Her breath hitched at his touches. 

"Azrael..." she started but the words caught in her throat. 

The realization of the temptations sent a shiver down her spine and left her breathless and uncertain.

He watched her closely and his expression was unreadable. 

"You don't have to be afraid. I won't hurt you. I promise", he whispered while brushing a strand of hair behind her ear. 

Zafira's heart pounded as she met his gaze and was caught between wanting to believe him and knowing the dangers of his world. 

In that moment, everything shifted, and she felt a connection that was impossible to ignore, no matter how much she tried.

Azrael's gaze drifted to the table where Zafira's medicine lay, its presence a stark reminder of her vulnerability. 

He picked up the bottle and turned it over in his hands and his brows furrowed slightly with concern.

"What's this?", he asked and his voice was tinged with genuine curiosity.

Zafira hesitated as she was unsure of how much to reveal. 

"It's just medication I need for... health issues", she replied cautiously and not wanting to divulge too much.

"Health issues?", he pressed, as his eyes were narrowing slightly as he studied her face. 

"You should have told me. I could have arranged for a doctor or....", Azreal said but she interrupted, a hint of defensiveness creeping into her tone, "It's not that serious. I can manage it on my own".

Azrael stepped closer and the intensity of his gaze was making her heart race. 

"But what if you can't? You need to take care of yourself, Zafira. You're important to me", He said and the weight of his words caught her off guard. 

She didn't know how to respond. She said softly, feeling a mix of frustration and warmth, "You barely know me". 

"Maybe! But I want to know you. I want to understand what you're going through", he admitted and explained to her.

Zafira felt a flicker of warmth in her chest at his sincerity, but a part of her still hesitated. 

"I appreciate that, Azrael, but I need to be alone for a bit. Can you give me some space?", She said. 

He studied her for a moment, sensing the tension between them. 

"I'll be right outside if you need anything. Just promise me you'll take care of yourself", He said finally and placed the medicine back on the table.

Zafira nodded and her heart was racing as he turned to leave. 

As he stepped out, she couldn't shake the feeling that this man, who had taken her captive, was also the one who might just save her in ways she never expected.

Zafira felt tired and sleepy. In frustration, she took her medicine and quickly fell asleep on the couch.

Azrael re-entered the room and saw her peacefully sleeping. His protective instincts kicked in as he gently picked her up and carried her to the bed. He laid her down carefully and tucked the blankets around her to keep her warm.

As he looked at her, he felt a strong desire to protect her from the dangers of his world. He knew he would do anything to keep her safe.

Azrael held Zafira's hand tightly and his heart was pounding with emotion. 

He whispered softly, "I don't know what I'm feeling for you, but I'm not letting you go now, Crimson. I'm yours now".

...

Thank you 

ShineeSunshine ♥️