Claimed by the Crown Heir novel Chapter 43

"Forget it. I don't like forcing people."

The man's sharp jawline tightened, his entire demeanor radiating a freezing aura.

He turned to leave.

Vanessa blocked his path, the hem of her gown swaying in a gentle arc with the movement.

"Mr. Howard, you misunderstood me," she cooed, her voice softening perfectly with a hint of playful grievance. "I just think there are too many eyes out there. It's really not appropriate—why don't we set a date and find a quiet place to properly enjoy each other's company?"

She'd humor him for now. As for whether she actually showed up later, well, that would be entirely up to her.

Her round, almond eyes lifted slightly. She had focused heavily on her eye makeup today, and with every shift of her gaze, her eyes sparkled with undeniable allure, practically oozing a natural, effortless seduction.

Alistair's dark eyes narrowed. He leaned down and gripped her chin, his lightly calloused thumb tracing her flawless, luminous skin. His touch was gentle but carried an undeniable sense of dominance.

"What makes you think I, Alistair Howard, am someone you can summon and dismiss at will?"

Instead of showing fear, Vanessa smoothly wrapped her hand around his wrist, her fingertips brushing his palm like a coaxing kitten.

"Back in Savannah, weren't you quite satisfied with me?"

If not, why had he chased her all the way to Sterling City?

Alistair raised an eyebrow, a faint, mocking smile touching his eyes.

"But I recall you firmly rejecting me last time, Miss Grant. Didn't you say you were saving yourself for your future husband?"

The arrogant jerk really did hold a grudge.

Vanessa's red lips curled into a smile. The tip of her tongue briefly traced her lower lip before her slender fingers shot out, hooking the end of his tie and giving it a gentle tug.

The distance between them vanished. She breathed out, her warm breath brushing against his Adam's apple. "Mr. Howard, could you really bear to turn me away?"

Alistair was no match for her deliberate seduction. His eyes darkened, consumed by raw, primal desire.

He backed her against the cold, hard wall. Her fingertips subconsciously crumpled his crisp shirt as he swallowed her soft gasps. He plundered her breath, drowning her completely in a forceful, dominating kiss.

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