a's

tiful woman I'

sharp tug deep in my stomach almost bordered on

be saying thi

away with a teasing smile. Blood rushed to my cheeks, leaving me speechless. Was he flirting with

this. At dinner, I made sure to sit as far from him as possible. His face was stoic, the teasing smile and charming glint in his eyes gone. W

aught me. The corner of his lips curled

y thoughts were still tangled. Leaning against the wall, I lit a cigarette, placing it between my lips just as I heard footsteps-two sets, stopping a f

g me, stating his intent

sponse. I'd thought my father would easily sway Killian Knight, given their bond. But instead, Killian dismissed him cold

retreated-only for another pair to appro

would he do to me? I quickly stubbed it out and ran, circling around to find the nearest door leadi

tared back at me, reflecting the moo

you,

him made him look both

*

vesdropper," he sai

ath, there was nowhere to go. His eyes glinte

Kni

don't allow smoking." His breath min

, but he leaned in, hi

The warning in his tone

odd

ve. He placed a hand above my head, his gaze swallowing me whole. His lips hovered near mine, and a curren

p for it," he said. "Make up to you?" My

to his lips, then

voice dipped lower, his breath brushing ag

ou want?"

na

ha

." He tilted my chin upwar

is thumb traced my lower lip. His focus w

s a dangerous mix of desire and warning. My heart pou

ghs wasn't fear-it was

his lips parted. I moved closer, one hand sliding against his chest. I fel

o

ugh. I pushed him away and bolted befo

e, three times-but the memory of him lingered, his presence still wrapped around me. My heart thund

-

ook a deep breath as the sun peeked out from behind the clouds, hanging high on the horizon-a rare sight in this part of the country. But in September, at least, you can still get days

ed to

his again. I was careful. After

med, clutching his shoulde

y shoulder as I ran. But in my haste, I tripped. I never hit the ground. Strong arms caught me, their grip firm yet oddly gentle. T

" His voice was low, his dark gaze piercing. It felt as though every

aring my gaze away from him. My eyes darted around, ensuring no one saw us. If

cheeks. It was nearly impossible to ignore

excitement lighting up her face. I humored her, watching as she wandered deep into the shop, disappearing

rd someone walk in. The footsteps gr

stood at the far end of the counter, holding a pair of

look

ing something

d, my eyes drifting to a disp

melled faintly of nail polish and metal. I sensed someone behind me before I saw them. My posture straigh