It was the middle of the night when he returned to his bedroom. Slipping off his shirt, he lay down behind her and leaned to her neck. He didn’t say anything. He just fooled around with her body, intent on waking her up.

After a brief moment, Zoe’s breathing became rapid.

He knew she was awake. Pressing his lips against her ear, he said softly, “Tell me you still love me!”

Her eyes snapped open, but she couldn’t fulfill his request. She could be his wife, attend social events with him, and sleep with him. She could also take care of his daily needs, but she couldn’t go against her will and say that she loved him.

Didn’t they merely strike a deal?

Why did it matter if she loved him?

Her long period of silence sank his heart. Then, he rolled her over and pinned her on the bed. Underneath the glow from the moonlight, he stared at her quietly, his eyes growing ever darker.

“What’s the matter, Mason?”

They locked gazes for a long time. Her voice was a little husky when she spoke,