In the study, the atmosphere was thick with tension.


    Elysia found herself pinned down on the couch by Tarquin, his weight pressing her firmly into the cushions. Somehow, their heated argument had spiraled into this moment of passion, moving from the entrance to the seclusion of the study.


    Tarquin''s lips imed hers with an assertive hunger, his hands firmly holding hers in ce. Though he was clearly losing control, he dared not take things further with Elysia here, in this ce. Instead, he poured all his pent-up longing into their kiss, venting days of yearning.


    Elysia was utterly dazed by the intensity of his kiss, her cheeks flushed a deep shade of red, her eyshes fluttering.


    It wasn''t until Elliot''s voice pierced the air again, calling out "Mommy?" that she snapped back to reality. Her eyes widened in shock, and she immediately began to resist.


    Tarquin too heard Elliot''s voice, reluctantly releasing her lips but still remaining close, his body hovering over hers.


    The room was charged with their heavy breathing, faces inches apart. Tarquin''s frustration was evident in his furrowed brows and dark expression, while Elysia, overwhelmed with embarrassment, could hardly meet his gaze, quickly averting her eyes.


    This gave Tarquin a clear view of her flushed neck and ears, igniting an even fiercer desire within him. He swallowed hard, forcing himself to calm down and finally stood up, his expression unreadable.


    Despite his unfulfilled desires, he knew he had already pushed the boundaries by leaving her lips swollen. He expected a p was imminent. However, as soon as Elysia was free, she leaped up from the couch and dashed for the door.


    Tarquin was puzzled. "Not going to p me?"


    Just as she reached for the doorknob, Tarquin quickly regained his senses and caught her, whispering lowly, "Your hair''s a mess, and your lips are swollen. If you go out now, they''ll notice."


    Elysia paused, then turned to the desk to grab a small mirror. The reflection showing her disheveled state enraged her, and she stormed over with her hand raised for a p.


    Tarquin braced himself, the dyed retribution he expected was about tond.


    But instead of letting her hit him, he caught her wrist gently and offered apromise, "We havepany soon. Can this wait? A p mark would be too telling."


    Elysia, frustrated and unable to pull away, resorted to kicking him instead. After a few kicks, she identally hurt her toe, wincing in pain.


    Tarquin immediately carried her back to the couch to check her foot, ensuring no serious injury. Holding her foot stirred his desire again, but at her resistance, he quickly let go, saying, "Take a moment here to collect yourself. I''ll handle our guests. Just wait a bit beforeing out." Elysia shot him a fierce look, wrapping herself in a throw nket, her demeanor clearly showing she was flustered and embarrassed. "Mommy?" Elliot''s voice came from outside the door once more.


    Tarquin adjusted his clothes hastily, trying to appear nonchnt as he opened the door to find Elliot with a puzzled expression. "Where''s Mommy? What were you guys doing in there? Why didn''t you open the door?" Elliot asked innocently.