Chapter 260

Evelyn Sullivan gripped the bedsheet tightly, her fingertips turning pale.

"Either call the maid or I won't take the medicine." Her voice was icy. "Your choice."

Ethan Sullivan toyed with the ointment box, the metal lid flipping between his fingers with a crisp sound.

"I choose the third option."

"There is no third option!"

He suddenly leaned in, his shadow looming over her. Evelyn instinctively shrank back, her spine pressing against the headboard.

"What are you afraid of?" Ethan chuckled lowly. "I just want to help you apply the medicine."

"I don't need it!"

"Then we'll wait." He straightened, leisurely undoing his cufflinks. "Let's see who gives in first."

Evelyn's chest heaved with anger. Three minutes later, she abruptly flipped onto her stomach, burying her face in the pillow.

"Hurry up!"

Ethan unscrewed the ointment, its faint medicinal scent filling the air. His gaze settled on the tense line of her back, the fabric of her nightgown rising slightly with each breath.

"Lift your shirt."

Her fingers clenched the hem, knuckles whitening. The fabric inched upward, revealing pale skin marred by a shocking bruise across her waist.

Ethan's eyes darkened.

"Had enough?" Evelyn's voice was muffled by the pillow. "If you're not going to do it, get out."

The cool ointment touched her skin, making her shiver. Then came the searing heat of his palm, stealing her breath.

"Don't move." His voice was rough.

Evelyn bit her lower lip. His fingers circled the injury with perfect pressure. Heat spread from her waist, her ears burning.

"Is... is it done?"

Ethan didn't answer. His breathing grew heavier against the back of her neck, sending tiny tremors through her.

After what felt like an eternity, he finally withdrew.

Evelyn yanked her shirt down and scrambled to the far corner of the bed like a startled rabbit.

"You can leave now."

Ethan wiped his hands slowly, his gaze lingering on her flushed earlobes.

"Kicking me out after getting what you wanted?"

"You—" She cut herself off, turning her face away. "Out!"

He chuckled and headed for the door, pausing just before closing it. "Remember to reapply tomorrow."

The moment the door shut, Evelyn hurled a pillow at it.