"You're the only one I would ever care about! You know this!" Gregory said, his voice trembling between affection and possession. His gaze clung to her as though he could tether her in place with words alone.
Rymora merely nodded, her movement small and mechanical, even as she instinctively took a step back. The air between them felt heavy, suffocating with the scent of him. The last thing she wanted was to remain in such close proximity—especially when he couldn't seem to keep his hands to himself. His fingertips brushed the air as though searching for her skin, and the gesture made her chest tighten in unease.
"I have to return!" she said quickly, her tone sharper than she intended. "Least Aria would notice if the meeting ends and I'm not there!" Her eyes darted anxiously toward the barn door, searching for escape. She turned, meaning to leave, but flinched when a firm hand caught her wrist.
