Elysia froze. Before she could even get a word out, he was already speaking.
"Mom, Dad, you keep watching the fireworks. Elysia and I are going to video call Lowell and Axel."
Without giving anyone a chance to object or ask questions, he grabbed Elysia's hand and practically dragged her inside.
Elysia protested, "Didn't we already video call them this afternoon?!"
Tarquin didn't say a word. He just held onto her hand, pulling her swiftly upstairs to their bedroom.
The second the door clicked shut, he hungrily crashed his lips against hers, kissing her deeply while simultaneously shedding his clothes.
Elysia's mind spun, her cheeks burning hot as she tried to weakly push him away.
"Stop it, I still want to watch the fireworks."
Tarquin threw his shirt aside, scooped her up effortlessly, and walked straight over to the balcony, setting her down on the broad windowsill. "Watch them from here."
Elysia grew even more flustered.
"No, my parents and the kids are right downstairs, what if... mm..."
Like an utterly insatiable beast, Tarquin buried his face in her shoulder and gave it a sharp, teasing bite.
A second later, he dragged his teeth lightly across her earlobe.
The mix of faint pain and electric tingling made Elysia's breath hitch, her mind completely surrendering to the moment.
Tarquin planted his hands on the windowsill, burying his head against her chest and nuzzling her like a spoiled child demanding attention.
The unique, familiar scent of his shampoo washed over her, and Elysia's heart melted. She gently stroked his hair.
Tarquin lifted his head again, his eyes burning bright, his voice low and incredibly seductive.
"My love, I love you. This is the happiest New Year I've ever had since my parents passed away."
Elysia's heart broke and swelled all at once. She tenderly cupped his handsome face. "I love you too."
Tarquin's lips crashed down again, and this time, Elysia didn't resist. She wrapped her arms around his neck, kissing him back with equal fervor.
Outside the window, the fireworks continued to bloom in brilliant colors, while inside, silhouettes merged in a room full of passion...
Meanwhile, downstairs.
At eight o'clock, the New Year's Eve broadcast began.
Eating a massive dinner, setting off fireworks, watching the broadcast, and staying up till midnight—these were the staple holiday traditions.
The younger generation didn't care much for the broadcast, but for the elders, it was an absolute must-watch event on New Year's Eve.


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