Hilliardâs grip on her hand tightened, prompting a sharp protest from her.
âLet go! Youâre hurting me!â
He released her hand quickly, his expression apologetic.
But Jennifer was resolute, and she said firmly, âI donât care if your intentions are genuine or if youâre just playing games.
I have a fiancé now.
Even if heâs far from perfect, heâs not yours to compete with.
Stay away from me and respect my decision.
â
She turned away, striding toward the door, her hand reaching for the knob.
Yet, an unexpected sound halted her in her tracks.
It was weirdâ¦
A heavy gasp filled the air, and she spun around to find Hilliardâs face flushed, his demeanor odd and disoriented.
Confusion knitted her brow.
Something was clearly amiss.
Approaching him cautiously, Jennifer realized the cause.
It wasnât a mere jest, but something more sinister.
Dr@per hadnât merely tampered with the glass of wine; heâd tainted the entire bottle.
Her concern for Hilliard overrode her frustration.
She stepped forward, her hand gently patting his cheek.
âHilliard, are you okay? Iâll call the manager.
â
Jennifer turned to leave, her concern palpable, but Hilliardâs firm grip on her wrist stopped her in her tracks.
His strength was undeniable, leaving her unable to break free.
Before she could react, she found herself pulled into his embrace.
With a deft movement, he seated her on a chair, his touch pressing down upon her.
âJenniferâ¦â
His voice was laden with unease, the effects of the aphrodisiac wine he had unknowingly consumed making him uncomfortable.
As a medical elite, he had never encountered such a situation, never experienced being drugged.
The potent aphrodisiac within the wine surged through his veins, clouding his judgment and drowning his self-control beneath a tidal wave of desire.
His thoughts became singular, a voice within him relentlessly urging him to claim her.
Jennifer responded with a firm slap to his face, her touch like a wake-up call.
âHilliard, snap out of it!â
The softness of her skin against his heated flesh sent shockwaves through him.
The allure of her crimson lips was irresistible, inviting him to taste their sweetness.