Mastering Self-control

Xavier rose to his feet, the lines of his body taut with control, as he wheeled Cathleen into their bedroom. As he stripped off his shirt, sharp light filtered through the half-drawn curtains, painting stripes across his bare chest. The swelling of his muscles made Cathleen's breath catch, and her cheeks burned with a flush that belied her composure.

"Wha-what are you doing?" She stammered, her eyes wide and unguarded.

He shot her a look that was as sharp as a cut piece of glass. "What does it look like I'm doing?" His voice was a low growl, rumbling with impatience.

On the outside, Xavier had been the picture of a devoted husband and wife. On the inside, he was like a caged lion, with power simmering beneath every move he made. He disappeared into the walk-in closet and emerged in a pair of gray jogging pants and a vest that did little to hide his formidable physique.

Cathleen's brow furrowed, and the furrows on her forehead were a sign of her concern. "You do know that we are not al