Larissa Judson and Haskell Palmer novel Chapter 521

After dinner, hearing that Haskell was going to play a game of chess with Zoltan, Larissa decided to stay instead of returning to the Judson estate immediately, watching with keen interest.

Haskell’s posture as he played was remarkably relaxed. He leaned back slightly against his chair, a chess piece dancing between his long, elegant fingers like a nimble sprite. His gaze was deep and focused, each move seeming both carefully calculated and effortlessly casual. Under the soft light, his handsome features were perfectly defined—the high bridge of his nose, his deep-set eyes, and the slight curve of his lips captivating Larissa completely.

Every time he placed a piece on the board, she felt her own heart flutter, as if each move rippled across the surface of her soul. The thought that this impossibly handsome man belonged to her, that they would soon share the most intimate closeness, sent a thrill of excitement through her. The feeling was so sweet, so deliciously private, that she had to bite her lip to keep from smiling aloud.

“Beaten again,” Zoltan said, looking at the board before slowly setting down his piece. He glanced up at the wall clock.

After two games, it was nearly ten. It was getting late.

“Alright, that’s enough for tonight,” Zoltan said to his grandson. “Haskell, you should take Larissa home.”

Haskell nodded. “Of course.”

As they left the study, Larissa took the handles of Haskell’s wheelchair, guiding him slowly down the hall and toward the front door.

Once there, she couldn’t help but say, “Haskell, you were absolutely magnetic back there. I couldn’t take my eyes off you.” Her own eyes sparkled with admiration and affection.

Haskell paused, a faint smile touching his lips. “Is that so? It’s not often I manage to surprise you. Sometimes I wonder if someone as brilliant as you might find me… ordinary.”

“In that case, I think I’ll enjoy it right now,” Larissa murmured, leaning down and planting a soft kiss on his cheek.

Haskell’s expression softened with a touch of longing. “I wish that at this time of night, we were heading to our room together instead of me sending you home.”

Larissa straightened up, her own voice full of hope. “Soon. Once your legs have healed, we can start planning the wedding.”

…

By the time Larissa arrived back at the Judson estate, it was nearly eleven, but the lights in the east wing’s living room were still on.