Chapter 0144

I surprise myself with my wicked grin, then, as I look down at him. Because this, at least — this cat and mouse game? It’s familiar

ground. And really, I do know, after last night, that Kent isn’t going to enforce that contract if I don’t want him to. He wants me to

want it.

And, if I’m honest? After a day to think about it, and looking at him right now, staring up at me with his muscular arms crossed,

his diamond-cut jaw clenched, all power, and all at my command?

I still do.

I want it.

Just...on my terms, like Janeen said.

“We have a contract, Kent,” I say, my smile growing as I lean over the banister to get a better look at him. “But that contract had

no specific timeline. So, I guess...” I shrug. “We'll just have to see.”

Then, without a look back, I jog the rest of the way up the stairs.

At around eight o’clock, a knock comes at my door, making my stomach plummet almost to my feet. I hesitate, knowing it could

be one of only a few things. I’d pushed Kent this afternoon — so it could be him, ready to push me back — but...

I take a deep breath in through my nose and steel myself, moving towards the door. It’s better to know, I think, than to sit on my

bed for fifteen minutes speculating about it. Which is something I know I am perfectly capable of doing. But...I've got to be brave.

So, I pull my door open and hear a little plop as something falls flat at my feet.

Surprised, I look down to see a box there, tied with a white ribbon tonight. I lean down and scoop it up into my arms, closing my

door behind me as I hurry to the bed. Eagerly, I untie the bow and shake the box open.

I'm absolutely stunned by what I see.

Slowly, I unpack the box, marveling at the incredible softness of the little silk pajama shorts and matching camisole, each

embroidered with the most delicate lily details along their edges. Then, I gasp when beneath it I find the most luxurious robe I’ve

ever seen — cut short, but trimmed at the neck and the cuffs with soft white fur.

I glance back at the box then and marvel again at the last gift — a pair of the most delicate white moccasins I’ve seen with fur

lining the inside and the most incredible beadwork on the top. I line these treasures up on the bed and take a moment to stare at

them, a finger curled on my chin, curious.