The Imposter Bride (Natalia and Magnus)
Chapter 428

He took one last lingering look at the peacefully slumbering Bianca before bending down to scoop her up in his arms. It was deep into the night, and snoozing on the couch would surely leave her with a cold come morning.

As Hector lifted Bianca, one word slid through his mind - featherlight. Indeed, Bianca was all skin and bones, so slight it seemed a strong gust might carry her away. He made a mental note to fatten her up a bit in the future; she was far too thin. A tornado could whisk her off without a trace.

With careful steps, Hector ascended the staircase, cradling the delicate Bianca, and tucked her into her bed. He gently pulled the covers over her, ready to leave her to her dreams, but as he took a couple of steps towards the door, Bianca's murmurs filled the still room.

"No, please! Don't cast me out!

"Sorry... I didn't mean to fall in the pool. It won't happen again, I swear. Please don't send me away.

"I've got nowhere else to go, please. Don't be mad at me... I'll change..."

Hector paused, realizing the day's events had deeply troubled Bianca, probably giving her nightmares where he played the villain.

With a hint of amusement, he approached the restless Bianca, intending to calm her flailing arms. "Don't worry, I'm not kicking you out. The pool is yours to enjoy; just try not to sink next time, okay?" Hector whispered, taking her hand in a gentle grasp. He didn't notice the softness in his own voice.

Perhaps it was his words, or the touch, but Bianca suddenly awoke. She clutched Hector's hand, pleading, "Punish me, scold me, but please, don't send me away! I have nowhere else to go."

Hearing her plea, a twinge of sympathy crossed Hector's heart. This fragile girl lived in constant fear, so cautious and timid. As he looked into her clear eyes, the suppressed heat within him stirred once more. "It's okay, you're not going anywhere. This will always be your home," he assured her softly, before attempting to leave.

But before he could step away, a jubilant Bianca hugged him tightly, showering him with thanks. "Thank you! You're the kindest soul in the world!"

Her voice was sweet, but the frailty of her body and the unique scent of a young girl quickly invaded Hector's senses, eliciting a strong reaction as his trousers tented conspicuously. Struggling to contain his desire, he tried to push her away. Bianca was innocent, and her embrace was born of gratitude. She was not aware of the turmoil she sparked in him.

The heat coursed through him, and Hector found himself unable to push her away. His need for a woman's touch was overwhelming.

Taking a deep breath, he gently moved her head aside. His gaze fell upon her tempting lips, and he bent down to kiss her.

Bianca's eyes widened in shock, frozen by his action.

"Close your eyes," Hector chastised gently, and she obeyed, her timid nature taking over. His kiss started softly upon her lips, growing firmer, almost devouring her sweetness that he couldn't resist. As Bianca struggled for breath, at the brink of passing out, Hector finally released her lips, ripping her clothes in a sudden move.

The sound of tearing fabric echoed as the cold air hit her skin. Startled back to reality, Bianca gasped in horror.

Looking into her innocent eyes and observing her glowing skin, Hector repressed his desires. With an unexpected surge of clarity, he pushed her away and made a hasty exit from the room. Damn it! What was he thinking? How could he lose control with Bianca? He loved Natalia. How could he betray her?

With a scowl, Hector wished to slap some sense into himself, but the sweet allure of Bianca's body and taste lingered, tempting him beyond reason. He exhaled deeply, heading for the bathroom.

A cold shower was in dire need.

Submerged in icy water, Hector stayed until the heat subsided. Wrapped in a bath towel, he made his way back to his bedroom. He must have been mad tonight! He nearly committed an unthinkable act! Approaching his bedroom, he found Bianca standing outside his door. "Why aren't you asleep?" He frowned.

Bianca had been startled by Hector's advance, but after he left, regret had flooded in. She was no child; she understood the matters between men and women well. In her eyes, Hector was her savior, and there was nothing he couldn't do to her. So, after much thought in her room, she mustered the courage to seek him out.

Bianca gazed at Hector, who was a vision of chiseled perfection wrapped in nothing but a towel. She took a deep breath and mustered the courage to speak her truth. "Mr. Hector, if you don't mind, we could... continue what was left unfinished earlier. You saved my life, and I have nothing of value to offer in return, just this untouched body."

Hearing Bianca's words, Hector's brows furrowed in irritation, and he replied with a cold voice, "Go back to your room. I don't want your gratitude! I had one too many drinks earlier, and I shouldn't have acted that way. Please, don't take it to heart. You're still young. Don't get caught up in this mess."

As soon as Hector finished speaking, Bianca protested loudly, "Do I seem too petite to you? That's just because I grew up with meager meals, but I'm twenty-one now, definitely old enough to take responsibility for my actions."