Her Hidden Crowns (Suzanne and Austin) novel Chapter 288

It was getting late, and Austin would probably be busy tomorrow.

He glanced at Suzanne, a smile tugging at his lips. It wasn't often he saw her like this, and he couldn't resist the urge to tease her.

Leaning in close, Austin's breath brushed against her ear as he deliberately lowered his voice. A hint of mischief was laced in his tone.

"Just sleeping?"

Suzanne's mind went blank. She quickly averted her gaze, refusing to meet his eyes. "What else?" she huffed.

Pushing him back slightly, she turned and strode out, her steps brisk.

Austin watched her stumbling retreat, his smirk deepening. This side of her was unexpectedly adorable. He then picked up Suzanne's bag before following after her.

Throughout the drive, Suzanne remained silent as she stared out the window. At some point, sleep overtook her.

An hour later, the car rolled to a stop. As it settled, Suzanne slowly opened her eyes.

Austin had already gathered their things. Glancing at her, he said softly, "Come inside and sleep. It's not comfortable in the car."

Then, suddenly, he leaned in.

Startled, Suzanne instinctively pressed herself against the door. Staring at Austin, she asked, "What is it?"

A flicker of nervousness stirred in her chest.

Austin reached out, his fingers brushing away a stray strand of hair from her forehead. He tucked it behind her ear. His lips curved slightly before he muttered, "Let's go."

Without another word, he opened his door and stepped out of the car.

Suzanne felt her cheeks heat up. It seemed she had overthought.

By the time she entered the bedroom, Austin was already in the shower. As she turned, her gaze fell on a small bag resting on the cabinet. It was her birthday gift from Yasmine.

Curious, she walked over and opened it, revealing a small black velvet box. Inside lay an exquisite swan-shaped brooch. The swan's neck arched gracefully, exuding an air of elegance. Embedded in its body was a striking violet opal, and it shimmered brilliantly under the light.

Suzanne picked it up, studying it closely.

Austin chuckled, his fingers lightly hooking around hers.

"Let's sleep," he said.

Before she could respond, he was already leading her to the bed.

They were married. Whatever should happen between them now was completely natural. And yet, Suzanne had no experience with this. The moment her back hit the mattress, unease crept in.

She instinctively tried to push him away, but Austin had already pulled her into his arms, his lips close to her ear.

His warm breath brushed against her skin, sending an involuntary shiver through her body. It left a strange tingling sensation, making her instinctively shrink away.

But Austin's firm grip around her waist left her with nowhere to retreat.

Suzanne swallowed hard. His scent filled her senses, making the air between them feel overwhelming.

Her breathing quickened, and her throat felt dry as she murmured, "I... I haven't showered yet."