49

Jerald believed he'd experienced life's extremes, having traveled extensively and endured six months of harrowing torment. However, nothing could have prepared him for the vision that greeted him when the woman before him shed her robe.

She appeared absolutely stunning in her form-fitting black gown, rendering him momentarily speechless—or was it that he'd lost his ability to speak? He couldn't be certain anymore.

Not only did his mouth fail him; his desires surged uncontrollably. He had never yearned for a more exquisite sight.

Ixora, without so much as a glance in his direction, awaited his response. As seconds ticked away, the only sounds were the chirping of crickets and his deepening breath. She began to feel a growing unease.

Her twin sister had been rather confident that this plan would work. "All you have to do is drop your robe...consider him seduced," Cherry had advised. But it certainly didn't seem like she'd seduced anyone at this moment.

Ixora managed to avert her gaze fr