Chapter 8 The Deal

Natalie's POV

My jaw started to hurt, but Rafael did not pull his hand, he kept looking deeply in my eyes. His face hovered so close, his thumb grazed my lower lip, touching it very slowly, and unawares he pushed his finger between my lips!

I felt as though I had been ensnared, intoxicated by his gaze, his scent, and his proximity.

How can a woman possibly push away the man she loves when he's this close, tempting her beyond measure?

My gaze lingered on his face, while his eyes remained fixated on my lips.

Suddenly, he sprang to his feet, as though jolted by electricity! He swiftly moved to the farthest point from me and stared out of the window.

Confusion swept over me, leaving me at a loss for words.

"You cannot engage in a sexual relationship until we annul this marriage," he declared, his tone commanding.

It was the first time he referred to it as marriage. Previously, he had called it the contract, the agreement. Despite his commanding tone, I found myself questioning his authorit