Chapter 215
Anthony stood under the shower, tipping his head back and letting the hot water wash over him. Steam rolled through the bathroom, turning everything hazy behind the glass. His tall silhouette flickered in and out of view, the light catching on sharp cheekbones, a strong body, and lines that could make anyone stare a little too long. He was still debating whether Charlotte would come over tonight when a sudden crash exploded behind him. The glass shower door flew open, hit with so much force that it shattered, spraying pieces everywhere. With the door gone, the steam faded fast.
Charlotte stood barefoot in the doorway, her eyes foggy and lost, staring at him like she didn’t know where she was. The noise must have shaken her, because she flinched and seemed to snap back to herself a little. Slowly, her gaze drifted up from his feet, taking in every inch. She froze, her eyes going wide.
It took Anthony a second to react. Then his face twisted in shock and he grabbed a towel, wrapping it around himself in a rush. “You
He tried to speak, but heat rushed through him, messing with his head. Charlotte just bit her lip, looking dazed, and started walking toward him.
“Lottie, don’t move!” Anthony shouted. Broken glass covered the floor and she didn’t even have shoes on. What was she thinking? He knotted the towel, took a couple of quick steps, and reached her just in time.
Charlotte pressed herself against him, her cheek resting on his chest. Her hands slipped into his, fingers weaving tight, holding on like she might drift away. He could feel her warmth and the wild pace of her heartbeat matching his own.
“Did that scare you?” Anthony’s breath came out a little rough, his cheeks burning. He lowered his chin to her forehead and whispered, “It’s okay. I’m here.”
But Charlotte didn’t seem to hear a word. She just clung to him like a scared kitten hiding from a storm. There was no way to pry her off, not even a little.
Left with no choice, Anthony bent down and lifted her up in his arms. The move pulled her pajama pants higher, showing off pair of long pale legs that just about made his heart skip. His nerves felt stretched to the limit, his self-control slipping.
How could she sleep through that crash? Was her sleepwalking really getting this bad? Anthony let out a quiet, helpless laugh. Aftera moment to collect himself, he carried her out of the bathroom and set her gently on the bed.
He watched her for a second, her face soft and peaceful in sleep. He traced his fingers along her cheek a small, crooked smile tugging at his lips. “You sure know how to keep things interesting, even in your sleep,’ he murmured. His thumb
brushed the corner of hereye, lingering for a moment.
The next morning, Charlotte woke with a start. Her eyes flew open as she sat up, blinking in confusion and glancing wildly around the room. This was her room, no doubt about it.
So last night must have been a ridiculous dream. She’d dreamed about going to Anthony’s room, catching him in the shower, and seeing way more than she should have.
It had felt so real.