Chapter 177: Chapter 177: Losing Control Out of Fascination for You
Claire Sinclair had to drag herself out of bed and go downstairs to find something to eat.
As she returned to the living room, the front door suddenly opened, and Adrian Quincy walked in.
"Claire, what’s wrong?" Without even pausing to change his shoes, Adrian strode up to her.
Claire stood where she was and said in a hushed voice, "I’m fine. Why are you here?"
"I thought something might have happened. I was worried, so I came to check on you."
"Mr. Quincy, you’re so busy. Don’t waste your time on me. It’s not worth it. Please, leave."
"Claire?" Adrian looked at her face, his expression strange.
The thought of her own status and background made her shrink back inwardly. She forced a smile and said:
"I couldn’t get used to Quincy Manor, so I came back. Also, I’ve already taken the morning-after pill, so you won’t have to worry about any consequences. But I’m exhausted today, and I’m afraid I don’t have the energy to do... that... with you again. If you want a woman, go find someone else. I don’t think we’re a good match."
She didn’t dare meet his eyes as she said this, completely missing how his face had darkened to a thunderous scowl.
"Are you finished?"
"I am. Please leave."
The words had barely left her mouth when he suddenly pinned her against the wall, his gaze dropping to bore into her timid eyes.
"I know I’m busy. I can’t be with you every second, and I might not even notice when you’re unhappy. Claire, if something’s on your mind, just say it. Don’t sulk all by yourself. What happened?"
His hot breath washed over her face, and Claire could feel the anger simmering inside him.
’Looks like I made him angry...’
"Um... I’ve already said what I needed to say. Please don’t stand so close..." ’It felt like he was stealing all her air, making it hard for her to breathe.’
"Who upset you? Was it me?"
"No, no. I’m just overthinking things. It has nothing to do with you."
Adrian drew in a sharp breath, his voice grave. "Did someone say something to you again?"
"No. I told you, I’m just overthinking. It has nothing to do with anyone else."
"Then what are you thinking about?"
Claire was growing frustrated with his questions. "I just feel like I’m not good enough for you! Even in bed, I can never keep up. You’re always so incredible, so perfect, while I’m so weak I can barely make it down a flight of stairs. Why do you insist on keeping me by your side? There are so many amazing women out there, so why pick a cripple like me? Who would ever approve of us? How long could we even last? My youth will be over in a few years. What am I supposed to do when I’m old and you’re still in your prime?"
Ultimately, it all came down to her insecurity.
Adrian finally understood. His lips parted. "Do I have to say that I want to grow old with you for you to feel secure? Is that it?"
Claire froze, her head snapping up to meet his gaze.
Her lips parted, but no words came out. She didn’t know how to answer.
Adrian slowly lowered his head, whispering in her ear, "The reason I can’t slow down... is because you’re too intoxicating. Claire, I lose control because I’m completely mesmerized by you. Do you understand?"
"I don’t..."
"I’ve fallen in love with you. Do you understand now?"
"..." ’I don’t, I don’t, I don’t understand!’
’How could he possibly fall in love with a weakling like me? I must have heard him wrong!!!’
Seeing the look of utter disbelief on her face, Adrian realized he would need more patience to get through to her. He decided to address her concerns one by one.
"You’re not as strong because you haven’t exercised much. I, on the other hand, train every day to military standards. That’s not something you can compare yourself to; there’s simply no comparison. You don’t need to feel insecure about your stamina."
