Next chapter (2)

"Are you trying to strangle me with my own tie, Mellisa?" he teased, his lips curling into a smirk.

I released the fabric, feigning innocence. "Who, me? Just admiring your fashion choices, that's all."

He chuckled, his eyes never leaving mine. "Is that so? Or is there another reason you keep yanking on it?"

I bit my lip, a playful smile dancing on my lips. "Maybe I just like how you look when you're slightly disheveled. It suits you."

Killian raised an eyebrow, a hint of amusement in his eyes. "Slightly disheveled, huh? Is that your subtle way of saying I look like a mess?"

I laughed, enjoying the banter. "Oh, please. You could roll out of bed and still look like you stepped off a magazine cover."

He leaned in, his ashy eyes penetrating mine. "Flattery will get you nowhere, Mrs.Anderson."

I tugged at his tie again, a daring glint in my eyes. "Who says I'm trying to get anywhere? Maybe I just enjoy your company."

His lips twitched into a half-smile, the tension between us shifting into