Madly Yours (Nora Reed) novel Chapter 131

Hudson took another drag, then crushed the cigarette out in the nearby ash receptacle. A final spark flared against his fingertip before dying, but he didn't even flinch.

He forced a bitter smile. He felt like he had used up more self-control over these past few days than in his entire life.

He wondered how much longer he could hold back.

When Nora came out of the restroom, she spotted Hudson standing by the bench, the crushed cigarette butt still pinched between his fingers.

Hearing her approach, he instinctively looked up. His gaze slid from her face down to her stomach.

"Ready?"

Nora nodded, a slight flush rising to her cheeks. Seeing him extend a hand toward her, she slowly walked over.

Hudson tossed the cigarette butt into the trash and pulled her smoothly into his arms.

Nora stiffened for a second, instinctively shrinking back.

"What... what are you doing?"

She looked up at him, her bright eyes filled with a mix of defensive caution and nervous tension.

Hudson let out a low chuckle at her expression. The sound rumbled deep in his chest, sending a tremor straight to her heart.

He raised a hand, bending his index finger to lightly tap the tip of her nose.

"Letting your imagination run wild with dirty thoughts again?"

Nora's face ignited. "I... I am not."

Hudson raised a brow. "No? Then what was that look for? Afraid I'm going to eat you alive?"

Caught red-handed, Nora blushed even harder and turned her face away to avoid his gaze.

Hudson laughed softly, tightening his hold and tucking her fully into his embrace, resting his chin on the top of her head.

"Relax. I'm not an animal."

His chest was firm and warm. The steady, powerful beat of his heart resonated through the thin fabric of his dress shirt, blending with his crisp, clean scent of pine. It made Nora's heart inexplicably skip a beat.

"Are you cold?"

Nora quickly shook her head.

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