Claimed by the Crown Heir novel Chapter 152

"I was going through a rebellious phase back then. I've turned over a new leaf," she said.

Alistair crushed the cigarette out with his bare fingers and tossed it out the window. His large hand gripped her chin, a wild smirk forming on his lips, though his tone was visibly displeased. "What, am I not better than Lucas?"

Vanessa froze. Looking at the handsome face just inches away, her eyes curved in amusement. "Mr. Howard, are you actually jealous?"

The air suddenly felt thick with possessive envy.

A low chuckle rumbled from his throat. His thumb traced the corner of her lips, his voice lazy yet dangerous. "And what if I am?"

Vanessa had expected him to brush it off. She certainly hadn't anticipated an outright admission.

Ripples of emotion cascaded through her usually calm heart.

"You're joking, right? We haven't even known each other that long."

In all the years she had spent with Lucas, she had never seen him jealous. She had only known Alistair for about a month. Could he really have fallen for her already?

Was it really that easy to like someone?

"Knowing someone for a long time doesn't equate to deep affection." Alistair leaned in, his cool lips tracing the soft outline of hers.

Vanessa's breath hitched. Before she could process his words, he captured her mouth with dominating force. His tongue gently parted her lips as he issued a hoarse command, "Open."

His magnetic voice was intoxicating. She parted her lips, allowing his warm tongue to slip inside, stealing away her breath and reason. As they tasted each other, their scorching breaths tangled in the confined space, wrapping her in a heady mix of wine and faint tobacco.

The kiss left her weak in the knees. Her fingers curled tightly into his shirt, completely surrendering to the sensation.

When the kiss finally broke, she leaned against his chest, panting softly. Her lips were swollen and glistening, looking as inviting as a blooming rose after a heavy rain.

"I'll give you three days to move in. Otherwise, I'll have to have a personal chat with your father."

Vanessa bit her lip. "Can't you be reasonable?"

"If I were being unreasonable, I would have just kidnapped you and locked you up by my side." Alistair looked down, his jaw clenching. "Don't forget, you're the one who provoked me first."

"..."

Once a man tasted the sweetness of passion, he became an unleashed beast, his possessiveness spiraling entirely out of control.

Vanessa was finally realizing this firsthand.

"Yes, Miss Sloan is completely safe."

That was a relief.

The car started. Alistair leaned lazily against the seat, his eyes closed as he rested. His large hand enveloped her soft one, gently massaging her fingers as if admiring a precious work of art.

They soon arrived at the Grant estate.

"We're here, Mr. Howard."

Alistair opened his eyes and looked at her. "Let me know when you've packed your things. I'll come pick you up."

...She hadn't even agreed yet.

When she remained silent, Alistair gripped her hand and yanked her against his chest. Caught off guard, Vanessa tumbled directly into his embrace.

"Did you hear me?"

His hoarse voice carried an undeniable, dominating authority.