Loving You All Over Again (Aurora and Maverick)

TII handle things at the Parker Manor after I take Aurora home tomorrow, Maverick said, his expression darkening as he addressed Howard's

concem

Hidden on the stairs, Aurora clutched her skirt, waiting until Howard left before emerging. Her heart felt heavy as she watched Maverick sitting rigidly on the sofa. "Have you eaten?" she asked softly.

Maverick intense gaze met hers. "No"

"I make something

thing quick. Just wait for a moment," she said.

As she headed for the kitchen, he watched her retreating figure with puzzlement. The pampered heiress he remembered had never shown any interest in cooking before.

When she returned with a tray, she found him studying her intently. "What is it?" she asked, her pulse quickening.

You made all this?" he asked, curiosity piqued.

Yeah, first attempt, she admitted, looking away. "If it's terrible, just... keep it to yourself."

He rolled up his sleeves and examined the carefully prepared meal-a slow- simmered vegetable soup with easily digestible sides. "When did you learn to cook!"

She had been a spoiled heiress who had never lifted a finger. Back when they still got along, she'd never even set foot in the kitchen.

"It's not rocket science she replied smoothly. "I'm a quick study. 130 10. remember?" She kept her voice steady, concealing that she'd learned cooking in her past life to please Scott. That misguided effort had led only to her death.

His eyebrow rose, but he remained silent through the meal. Before she could clear up, he spoke. "I'll take

se you home tomorrow. The wedding arrangements will be handled through proper channels."

She sank into a chair. "Thank you for agreeing to marry me

The words came from her heart as she remembered his dramatic rescue at the press conference. She'd been such a fool in her past life to overlook him, leading to his tragic death. This time would be different-she'd protect him, keep him from harm.

Morning light gilded his features as he fixed her with a hard stare. "You proposed first, if I recall correctly. I'm only saving the Parker family's face over this broken engagement. Besides, I saved your life. Did you think I'd just let you walk away?" His forced coldness made her heart ache even as she saw through it. "Of course not. I'm the eager bride, grateful for a chance to make amends."

His grip tightened on his utensils. "Don't get too comfortable. This marriage is just damage control for the Parker name. You'll be Mrs. Parker on paper only. Nothing more."

"Paper only? So, no real marriage! Fine by me. When you find someone you actually want, I'll step aside," she said, bittemess creeping into her

Voice.

His face darkened jusstantly. "Glad we understand each other," he said with biting sarcasm. "Let's keep things strictly formal and ensure nothing. develops between

us."

"Perfect," the replied, though her heart clenched. "I won't interfere with your life. I'll play my part and stay out of your way

If she didn't already know he loved her, his act might have worked. 'Such a stubborn man, she thought. She'd love to see him try falling for anyone

Aurora stormed into the kitchen with the dishes, her lips pressed into a thin line. Maverick slumped on the couch, seething with rage, the words she'd spoken to Scott on TV juill ringing in his cars, each one a sharp jab to his heart.

By the time she finished with the dishes and came out, Maverick bad already disappeared upstairs.

Later, heating water running upstairs, she followed despite her lingering irritation. The sight of his back covered in blood-stained bandages made her throat tighten. These were tral wounds from saving her, not like Scott's superficial scratches. What are you doing here?" His voice turned frosty at her appearance. "Let me help with those," she offered.

"Notuecessary; he said stemdy.

stood firin, guilt and concern overwhelming her anger. "You got hurt saving me. I know my place. Think of me as

fine as your caregiver if you need

"At least you understand your role," he said coldly

Steam rose between them, clouding his vision. One small movement would let him kiss the woman he'd dreamed of. Unable to resist, he leaned

down

Aurora flinched and turned away, blushing with embarrassment and anger. "What do you think you're doing?"

"You brought this on yourself," he said with a smirk, keeping his arm around her waist.

She pressed her hands against his chest, holding him back. "What happened to keeping things formal!"

Her pointed reminder of his own words left him speechless.noveldrama

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