Rough Waters: 6. Breaking Point

The mansion was quiet now, the storm outside reduced to a soft drizzle. But inside, Ivy felt the storm raging more fiercely than ever. Every time she moved, she felt Jace’s gaze burning into her, a smoldering mix of desire and possessiveness that left her trembling.

She had thought she understood him—the rough dominance, the teasing, the heated touches—but today had proven otherwise.

It started innocuously enough. Ivy had wandered down to the kitchen for a late breakfast, still in her damp clothes from a morning shower. She hummed softly, trying to pretend she didn’t notice how Jace was lounging on the counter, arms crossed, tattoos gleaming in the soft morning light, eyes dark and unreadable.

“You’re up early,” he said casually, voice low and dangerous. “Or maybe… you just want to see me", he teased, looking to see how she would react. 

Ivy bristled, cheeks flushing. “I’m not here for you,” she snapped, trying to sound firm, but her voice betrayed her.<