Chapter 11

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Throughout the dinner, I couldn't help but notice the subtle, almost electric brush of our hands under the table

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Throughout the dinner, I couldn't help but notice the subtle, almost electric brush of our hands under the table. Addy's face occasionally displayed a charming hint of red, adding to her allure. I stole glances her way, drawn to her magnetic presence.As I handed the chocolates to her, I noticed a spark of surprise and a faint, pleased smile   playing on her lips that I would've missed if I wasn't watching her like a creep.

After Addy excused herself and headed to her room, our parents, her family and mine, engaged in a conversation about the forthcoming engagement party. I turned to Christian, engaging myself in a conversation with him.
Christian excused himself as he received an incoming call.While Christian took his call, I observed Sophia gracefully and gently taking Evan, their young son, into her arms.

I excused myself from the ongoing conversation and made my way over to Sophia. As I approached Sophia, I politely inquired, "Sophia, could you please tell me where Addy's room is?" Sophia's teasing grin persisted as she questioned, "Asher, what's the secret mission to Addy's room all about?" Despite her teasing, Sophia kindly provided me with directions to Addy's room.

My relationship with Sophia had evolved over the years into a deep and genuine friendship. She was Christian's wife and a vital part of our close-knit circle. Sophia's cheerful and teasing personality added a light-hearted element to our interactions, making her an essential part of our extended family.

I made my way to Addy's room. As I reached her door, I raised my hand and gave it a gentle knock.I heard a muffled "Come in," and I gently pushed the door open. Inside, I found Addy sitting comfortably, was in the midst of enjoying one of the chocolates I had given her earlier.

As I entered Addy's room, her gaze, previously focused on the chocolates, lifted to see who had come. There was a moment of shock as her eyes met mine, and it was evident that she had been caught enjoying the chocolates I had gifted her earlier.

Clearing her throat, Addy hissed, "Carter, what are you doing in my room?".As Addy removed the blanket from her legs and stood before me in a silk nightie, I couldn't help but gulp, captivated by her presence and the alluring sight she presented.I found myself unable to look away, my gaze drawn to her in a way that was impossible to ignore.

As she noticed my reaction, Addy snapped her fingers to bring me back to reality. Under her breath, she muttered, "Pervert." I took a moment to explore Addy's room, my eyes wandering over the little details that filled the space.As I picked up one of Addy's pictures, she suddenly snatched it from my hand.With a touch of sarcasm, Addy quipped, "Oh, Carter, haven't you heard of something called personal space?"

I chuckled lightly and replied, "Well, I am looking at my to-be wife's photo, so I think that grants me some special privileges." Addy couldn't help but scoff and roll her eyes at my response. I couldn't help but smile and playfully chide, "Don't roll your eyes at me, Blue."
In a retort, Addy shot back, "What are you, Christian Grey?". She poked my chest with her index finger.

I couldn't resist the temptation to pull Addy closer by the waist and felt her breath hitching at the proximity.With one hand on Addy's waist and the other gently pushing her hair back, I leaned in and whispered into her ear, "No, but I can be many shades darker for you." I moved back, giving Addy some space but not leaving her completely. As I did so, I couldn't help but notice her flushed face.

In a bold move, I gently used my thumb to clean the remnants of chocolate from the side of Addy's lips. Afterward, I raised my thumb to my lips and licked it, all while locking eyes with her. It was a suggestive gesture, silently conveying the idea that I could be a bit bolder for her.

With a sense of restraint, I bid Addy a goodnight and left her room, realizing that I needed to regain my self-control.

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As I entered my office the following day, I was greeted by the sight of my best friend, Liam, who had been out of the country on a business trip.In a sudden and shocking turn of events, Liam punched me, catching me completely off guard. I was left momentarily stunned, with no time to respond to the unexpected blow.

Still reeling from the unexpected punch, I managed to collect myself and asked Liam, "What the hell, Liam? Why did you punch me?" Liam responded with a hint of frustration, "I had to find out about my best friend's marriage much later than I should have. You should have told me, Asher."

I quickly apologized to Liam for the delay in sharing such a significant piece of news with him. Then, I began to explain everything.As I finished explaining the situation to Liam, he took a moment to absorb the information. After a thoughtful pause, he responded, "I understand, Asher. It's a lot to take in, but I'm here for you, and I've got your back."

Liam gave a knowing nod and said, "I should go, Ashy. We'll chat soon." He playfully blew a kiss.  I couldn't help but make a slightly disgusted face in response. Liam, ever the joker, chuckled at my reaction.

After Liam left, I took my phone out and scrolled through the photos for the picture of Addy, taken the previous night when she was admiring the night sky.

With a soft, almost inaudible voice, I found myself whispering to the picture of Addy on my phone, "What are you doing to me, Blue?"

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