I had never undone a man's belt before.
The only time it ever happened was with Julian, and even that barely counted. We were drunk. Everything was rushed. He took control the whole time, leaving me with nothing but broken flashes and regret.
This was different.
My fingers brushed the cool metal of the buckle, and a soft tremble ran through my hand. Not fear. Anticipation. The kind that settles deep in your chest and won't let go.
Before I could move further, warmth covered the back of my hand.
I looked up.
Lewis was watching me. Not with hunger. Not with pressure. Just steady awareness, like he felt every breath I took.
" Elena," he said gently, his voice low but calm. "It's not even dark yet. Dinner's almost ready."
Heat rushed to my face. Embarrassment mixed with something sharper impatience I didn't know how to hide.
I pulled my hand back, unsure what to say.
