‘If I told you that, I’d be giving away my secrets, now wouldn’t I?’ He laughed, and I smiled, to show I was in on the joke, but his tone made me uneasy. It must have been Ahmed, either that or he’d followed me home? I left the scissors on the side for easy access and placed the roses in the only vase I owned. It quivered as I put it on the table. They were stunning, belonging to a gothic fairy tale. Ian saw me staring at them and smiled, more to himself than at me.

‘I knew you’d love roses.’

He was across the kitchen in one swift movement, face inches from mine. Backed into the corner, nowhere to escape to. My chest tightened, fingers gripping the worktop to keep myself steady. He pushed a blonde strand of hair behind my ear, his lifeless eyes searched mine as though he was looking for answers. I knew he enjoyed having the upper hand. He liked to be in control, in every way and I was no match for him here.

‘I can’t stop thinking about that kiss.’ He leaned in, his lips brushing mine. I squeezed my eyes shut and prayed for Ben to walk in unexpectedly. Ian held the back of my head in place, fingers in my hair. I was going nowhere until he was done with me. I held my breath when his other hand wrapped around the cord of my dressing gown, tugging it gently. He was going to undress me, here in the kitchen. My brain was steaming ahead, thinking of ways to escape, excuses to stop. All the time trying to pretend I was enjoying his tongue dancing in my mouth. I tried my best to get involved, not to be stiff. But not so much for him to take things further. Finally, after an age, he pulled away, licking his lips as though he had just stopped short of devouring me entirely.

‘That made it worthwhile,’ he said, releasing his grip on my dressing gown and stepping away to pick up his tea.

My lips tingled from the pressure, chest flushed red. You’re disgusting, the voice in my head spat.

‘You’re very quiet?’ Ian said.

‘I’m sorry, you’ve just thrown me.’ I said, my hand touching my lips.

Christ, Eve, get your shit together otherwise he’s going to figure out something is wrong.

I slurped the too hot liquid, my mouth stinging. The burning was a welcome cleanse, dissolving the taste of Ian. I sat at the table and he followed, sitting opposite me. It was strange seeing another man in Ben’s chair.

‘How was your day?’ I asked, making conversation.