“You didn’t have to contact my secretary or to make an appointment. You can talk directly to me. I'll let them know to let you in here in the building.”Nikolai was still the same person. Nothing has changed with the way he looks, or the way he dresses. But the intensity of his stare was leaving an invisible on her skin. It was so strong that Belle didn’t even want to get any closer.“I-I know you’re busy. I didn’t think you’d have spare time. There's no need for that.”“I’ll always have time for you, Isobelle.” ‘He’s saying my name. I’m hearing him call my name from those lips and yet, it still feels like the first time.’It’s an impossible task not to get distracted. Nikolai looked like he was ready to jump anytime to get a hold of her. Belle settled with not meeting his eyes and keeping her eyes locked on the floor, or on his desk, anywhere but his direction.She made a wrong move. On his desk, there was a picture of Nikolai

‘How in the world am I supposed to be focused on this house tour when all that was running in my mind is that line he said?’It was impossible to ignore, let alone forget.‘Allow me to spoil you a little, Isobelle.’“A little? A little?! How could this little kingdom be categorized as little?” Belle stared at the signed impressionist painting. That art alone looks like it should be in a museum. Wherever she looked, there’s at least one thing that would be considered a treasure. “I didn’t marry him for money, didn’t I? Gosh. What if I’m really one of those gold diggers? Oh, hell.”“You’re not.”“What the-!” Belle wanted badly to faint on the spot. But as of the moment, she’d rather have broken bones than break something in this house. “I thought you left!”“I talked to the head security staff. He’d register your thumb mark and for facial recognition before we leave.”“Head of security? So, there’s like a… a body?” She nev

This is all she has been waiting for.Belle was holding a paper bag filled with toys that she bought before for Liam. She practiced all night trying to find the perfect words. This could not go wrong.“Oh!” The door moved even before she could open. Next thing she knows, she's already face to face with Nikolai.“Why are you not coming inside?”“How did you know I was here?”“Security said you arrived and that was twenty minutes ago.”Belle didn't realize she had been standing outside that long. Like an actress preparing for a big role, she was making a run through of all her lines. Nervousness was getting the best of her.“Hey,” Nikolai soothingly caressed her shoulders. “Isobelle, it's going to be alright. Don’t worry too much.”“You don't know that.”“But I know Liam,” he answered. “And I know you.”“Wait. Do you think he'll love these toys?” Her hand was shaking as she showed Nikolai what was inside the box. He held her hand and she found a way to breathe without gasping for air. “

“Good morning, Madam. What would you like for breakfast?”Having a cook and an army of maids was unnecessary. They are even wearing uniforms that are quite fashionable. She couldn't help but feel out of place.“Please call me Belle. I'll only have bread and I can prepare that myself. Thank you.”“No need for that, Madam Belle. I will do it for you.”She opens her mouth, ready to clarify things here in this mansion, but Nikolai beats her to it.“Two french toast and two cups of coffee. A teaspoon of sugar and creamer. Thank you, Dania.” He went straight to the table, not even granting Belle a glimpse. “You're making them more uncomfortable if you prepare the food yourself. Let them do their job, Isobelle.”He still hasn't changed. He's still acting cold towards her after their conversation. Gone was the kind and considerate Nikolai. Something inside him snapped and now, he wouldn't even meet her eyes when he talks to her.

There's something endearing and frightening about being naked in front of someone. It feels like surrendering. Giving him the upper-hand leaving her with nothing but a sheer piece of vulnerability. She didn't mind. This is something that she was willing to do.Under the scrutiny of Nikolai's gaze, she didn't back down at the staring contest. In fact, if he wouldn't kiss him first, she'd do it herself.Nikolai sighed and looked away. Continuing to look away, he gets a robe.“Is this something you needed to check off your checklist? Is this how low you think of me and our marriage?” He handed her the robe. “Cover yourself up. Please.”“What are you saying, Nikolai? You said you play husband and wife. Well, here we are. What kind of married couple doesn't sleep with each other?”“The kind that stays married even if one of them wants a divorce. You would be surprised how many married couples don't get to have a happily ever after, Isobelle. We'd simply be another non-significant addition