Chapter 30. Strange sensations

Björn held a crystal glass of the finest whiskey in his hand, his heart fluttering as he heard his name spoken by Ava. "She said my name." He disliked being called by name by people who weren't close to him.

"Excuse me, I meant to say, Mr. Hoffmann," she quickly corrected herself, but Björn promptly dismissed it.

"Don't worry," he leaned toward her, so she could hear. "I said your name, you responded the same way, and besides, it's not working hours. So you can call me Björn..." Ava felt her breath hitch, and she had to part her lips slightly to take a sly breath. Björn straightened up and, without taking his eyes off her, took a sip of his drink, observing her every reaction.

"And your guest?" Ava asked, avoiding eye contact. Björn felt irritated, removed the crystal glass from his lips, and licked a drop from his lower lip with his tongue. That carefree and straightforward gesture evoked strange sensations in Ava, as if she was thirsty. Björn glanced downstairs and spotted Carter