Chapter 25

When I opened the door for the commander, my heart beat even harder. Standing a short distance away, John stood with his arms crossed over his broad chest, his eyes half-closed, appraising me.

" Do you no longer wish to enter, commander? "— I asked confidently with the side of my body resting on the side of the door; with the other hand, I held it slightly open.

" Do you want me to come in? Shall I get a drink, dear? " he asked cheekily.

I stared at him, trying to disguise my shock at his audacity. He had been begging me to come in for a few minutes, and now he was turning the tables. As if I was inviting him in.

Could the commander never stop trying to manipulate everything around him?

I knew I should respond to him, but when he came over and uncrossed his arms, he slowly leaned in, his face inches from mine, and I swallowed hard. My mind was suddenly confused as he stared at me with that dark stare, so expressive, and yet, it was also an enigma. Becau