Act Like You Love Me (Jessica) novel Chapter 95

Chapter 95

Jessica’s POV

59

55 vouchers

I woke to the soft, honeyed caress of sunlight filtering through the heavy suite curtains. For a long moment, I just lay there, the warmth pulling me slowly from a deep, dreamless sleep.

The bed felt like a cloud, vast and soft, but as I reached out, my hand met only cold silk.

The space beside me was empty. Aaron was already up.

I stretched, a slow ache in my muscles serving as a delicious reminder of last night. My body was still humming a faint flutter in my chest echoing the way we’d lost ourselves in each other.

These past few days had felt like an intoxicating illusion; a shimmering bubble where the past didn’t exist.

In here, there was no history, no pain, and no secrets. Just us, laughing and touching, pretending the world hadn’t once torn us into pieces.

But bubbles are fragile things. I knew, deep down, that this couldn’t last forever. The real world was waiting just outside this country, ready to prick the dream.

Still, I clung to it. I wasn’t ready to let go of the “us” we were in the dark.

I glanced at the bedside clock: 9:30 AM. Aaron had decided to extend our stay in Madrid by an extra day, pivoting our professional business trip into something that felt dangerously like a vacation.

Today, we were heading to a local high school basketball game, a low-key event where he could scout young talent.

I rolled out of bed and waltzed into the bathroom, letting the steam of the shower wash over me.

I must have lost track of time-maybe twenty minutes, maybe thirty-just standing under the thinking of him.

Then, his impatient voice cut through the sound of the water.

Jess, I’m definitely going to leave you if you don’t hurry the fuck up.”

spray and

I heard him grumbling from the living area, his footsteps heavy. I leaned my head against the cool tile and rolled my eyes at the ceiling.

I finished up, dried my body, and stepped out into the suite. I purposely didn’t look for him, heading straight for the closet with a feigned air of indifference.

Even without making eye contact, I could feel his glare burning into the back of my neck. It was a silent, heavy weight that told me exactly where he was sitting and exactly how much I was testing his patience.

I kept my outfit simple: a pair of denim shorts that hit mid-thigh and a simple white crop top. I grabbed my cap from the dresser, tugging my messy ponytail through the back.

16:05 Wed, Jan 21

Chapter 95

:

No glamour, no fuss-just comfortable, casual vibes for a gym bleacher.

, (59)

55 vouchers.

Aaron was sprawled on the sofa, looking devastatingly relaxed in loose-fitting joggers and a black tee that clung to the broad planes of his chest.

He didn’t say a word, just fixed me with this stern, dark gaze that made my attitude evaporate instantly.

There was something about his strictness that was undeniably sexy; it made me want to be a ‘good girl, to please him in ways that had nothing to do with work.

“Jess…”

“I know, I know. I’m sorry,” I sighed, trying to sound annoyed even though my heart was racing. “It’s a girl thing.”

He rolled his eyes, his tall frame unfolding as he stood up. “Whatever you say.”

Then he reached into his pocket and pulled out a black face mask, handing it to me.

I stared at it confused, then looked up at him.

“What’s this for?”

“Jess, it’s a mask? What are masks used for?”

His tone was sarcastic, but serious underneath.

I rolled my eyes again. “I know what masks are for, Sherlock. But why do you want me to wear it?”

He didn’t answer with words. He stepped into my space, his fingers wrapping around my arms.

The heat of his touch made my toes curl in my sneakers.

“We’d be in public. Pictures would be taken…”

My face fell instantly, the excitement of the day dimming.

“Oh. I get it,” I whispered, looking at the floor. I felt like a secret he was trying to bury.

He noticed the change immediately. His hand moved to my chin, lifting it until I was forced to meet his eyes.

“Hey, I’m not ashamed of you, Jess. As a matter of fact, I want to show you off to the world.” His voice softened with sincerity.

“However, we’re both aware of our current situation, and once that’s resolved, then you can walk freely with me. I promise.”

I was still sad, the rejection stinging despite his words, so I remained quiet. He pulled me against his chest, his arms wrapping around me protectively.

“I’m sure Dave told you-the paparazzi, the media… everyone wants a piece of me. And you’re the most

16:06 Wed, Jan 21

Chapter 95

precious piece I have.”

This caused me to look up at him, searching his face.

“Do you mean that?”

55 vouchers

His lips curled into a rare, soft smile as he pulled me closer, and pecked my forehead. His lips lingering there for a beat.

“I meant what i said, Jess. You’re only wearing a mask because of the danger. Not because I want to keep you hidden. Between the press, Lauren and my grandfather… Jess, I can fight for you, but I’d rather you never be in the line of fire to begin with.”

A small. genuine smile finally touched my lips.

“I understand.” He pecked me again, this time on the lips-soft, reassuring-before stepping back.

“Now, let’s go.”

I slid the mask on, pulled my cap low, and we headed out.

Mabel was waiting by the SUV.

When she saw me, she didn’t just nod—she gave me a slow, flirty wink that sent a hot flush to my cheeks.

Aaron’s arm immediately clamped around my shoulders, pulling me into him with possessive force.

Mabel just chuckled, clearly enjoying the rise she got out of him.

Once we were settled in the back of the car, before the driver and Mabel got in, Aaron turned to me, his jaw tight.

“Do I have to fight women too, Jess?” He raised an arched brow.

I laughed, the sound muffled by my mask.

“Come on, Ronnie. She was just being nice.”

His eyes darkened with jealousy.

“Yeah, right. She was looking at you like she wanted to eat you alive. And Jess-” His hand moved suddenly, his fingers grazing my throat as he leaned in close.

“I warned you to stop calling me Ronnie.”

I wasn’t scared. If anything, the vibration of his voice against my skin was a total turn-on.

“I’ll deal with your disobedience later,” he murmured, his thumb trailing over my pulse point before he let go.

I didn’t say a word for the rest of the ride. I couldn’t. I felt like if I even breathed too heavily, I’d lose my composure right there on the leather seats.

16:06 Wed, Jan 21

Chapter 95

A

50

55 vouchers

We made a quick stop at a cotton candy shop-Aaron’s idea. He came back with a huge cloud of raspberry- flavored sugar,

“Thank you,” I mumbled, taking a bite. The sweet, tangy flavor exploded on my tongue. It was a sweet, silent peace offering.

After a scenic ride through the city, we arrived at the arena; a modest high school venue, but alive with

energy.

Fans milled about outside, the air buzzing with pre-game excitement.

Before we got out, Aaron turned to me, his expression serious. “Stay by my side, okay?”

I nodded subtly, pulling the mask up over my nose and adjusting the hat.

AD

Comment

Send gift

No Ads