Trouble in Paradise (Arianna and Nicholas) novel Chapter 632

Nicholas' abrupt change in demeanor startled me. His fierce, aggressive approach left me frozen.

The moment his lips touched mine, a strange dizziness overtook me. My mind buzzed into a blank hum.

He cupped my face in both hands, his forehead resting lightly against mine as he panted softly. "When will I finally get you to open that mouth of yours?"

Before I could respond, one of his hands slid down to my waist, caressing the soft curve. "Your whole body is soft, but this mouth of yours is hard as stone."

I turned my face away, refusing to look at him. "That's none of your business!"

"It is my business, Ariana. It's my business for the rest of my life!"

My mind buzzed inexplicably. The words "for the rest of my life" were too heavy, too much.

I stared straight at him. "I can take care of myself. I don't need you. Take care of Tabitha instead."

"Without you, what does she even mean to me?"

His expression darkened in an instant. "There's nothing great about having a child. Every time I think about how that little girl nearly cost you your life, I just..."

Before he could finish, I pointed at him and warned, "Don't you dare say something like that. She's your daughter!"

Nicholas grabbed my finger, bringing it to his lips for a gentle kiss. "Good thing she is. If she weren't, and she hurt you like this, I'd…"

I quickly covered his mouth with my hand, frowning. His words set off alarm bells in my mind. If Nicholas harbored such thoughts, would he neglect Tabitha's treatment? What if he refused to shoulder his responsibilities as her father?

I gazed at him, worry etched on my face.

"Relax, I was just teasing you." A gentle kiss landed on my furrowed brow. "As long as you're here, even if it's because of you, I'll take care of Tabitha."