Rebirth Into My Second Chance

Chapter 174

I would be the bait myself to dig out the evidence. I threw back a hefty gulp. With a buzz humming under my skin, I straddled Max's lap, a daring move fueled by alcohol.

"Aren't you drinking? If not, it's over between us," I blurted out, a line I had rehearsed inside throughout the evening.

"Even with alcohol, you'd still want to sever ties with me," Max retorted, cradling his glass, an amused yet resigned smirk playing on his lips.

"You do know me well," I shot back, the alcohol emboldening my words.

"Indeed, in this life and the next," he quipped. The statement was so bizarre that I thought I misheard it due to my inebriated state. Instead of pressing him, I clinked my glass against his in a silent toast to whatever twisted fate awaited us.

"Then let's drink more. Maybe that'll change our relationship status," I suggested, my fingers teasingly tracing Max's collarbone line, an invitation that he didn't decline. My boldness surged, hands venturing further, exploring the toned landscape of his chest and abs. "We were supposed to be drinking, huh? Or are you planning on me now?" His voice came with amusement and anticipation.

clawed its way back as I pressed

fulfilling your dream this time," Max reassured, avoiding

about my last attempt?" Confusion twisted my features as I sought clarity in his deep, unreadable

firm grip around my waist, our glasses clinking in a silent

my words with a kiss firmly on his lips, signaling my determination to prove him wrong

welcomed my

tried to unravel the ties that bound his robe, his lack of protest only deepened

I halted, pushing him away, intent on escaping his embrace. But in a swift motion, he lifted me, carrying me straight to the bedroom with a declaration, "Once we've started, there's no turning

BUMS

curtains drawn and the door shut, the

glow of the bedside lamp. Max laid me down softly, and his lean muscles were a sight that stirred an unexpected desire within me fueled no doubt by

Tracey wanted me dead, would you avenge us?" The question slipped out amidst the tension. "She won't get the chance," Max murmured against