Aria's POV
When I opened my eyes, I realized morning had already broken.
Aiden's side of the bed was empty. I touched my burning cheeks, letting out a small sigh of relief.
Thank God he wasn't here. I wouldn't know how to face him right now. Every time I thought of him, my mind flashed back to last night's dream—his naked body with that dog collar around his neck. Jesus.
I quickly slapped my cheeks, trying to snap myself back to reality. Just then, Aiden pushed open the door, his hair still damp from swimming, wearing nothing but a loose bathrobe.
His dark eyes landed on me, lingering on my face. "Good morning, Mrs. Carter," he said, his voice still morning-rough.
"Morning," I mumbled, feeling weirdly guilty.
"Why are you so flushed? Feeling unwell?" He crossed the room with casual
