Natalie's POV
Julian remained frozen as my body pressed against his. I could feel his heart racing beneath his shirt, a reaction I had counted on. This was a dance I knew well - the parted lips, the half-lidded eyes, the subtle arch of my back that pushed my breasts more firmly against his chest.
"It's been too long," I whispered, trailing my fingers along his jawline. "Remember how good we used to be together?"
His amber eyes darkened, but not with the desire I expected. Something else flickered there - hesitation, confusion.
I pressed my advantage, rising on tiptoe to brush my lips against his neck. "I've waited so patiently for you, Julian. For us to be a family."
His hands finally moved, but instead of pulling me closer, they gently grasped my shoulders and created distance between us.
"Natalie," he said, his voice low and controlled. "This isn't a good time."
