Elena's ears rang from the gunfire as Damian dragged her behind the heavy oak dining table. The masked intruder fired again, and shards of glass rained down around them. Damian pulled a gun from a hidden drawer and returned fire with lethal precision.
The intruder fled through the shattered window, disappearing into the night. Elena's hands shook as Damian stood, scanning the room for any further danger.
"Are you hurt?" he asked, crouching in front of her.
"I… I don't think so," Elena stammered, her heart pounding.
Damian reached out, brushing a strand of hair from her face. His touch was surprisingly gentle, and Elena's breath caught. "You need to stay with me," he said, voice firm. "Whoever that was, they were after you as much as me."
"I can't," she whispered. "You're the reason my life is in chaos."
His jaw clenched. "I'm the reason you're still alive," he corrected. "You think I want this? You think I enjoy dragging you into my world?"
Elena's heart twisted. She hated that she could see the truth in his eyes. "I just want my life back," she said softly.
Damian stepped closer, his intense gaze pinning her in place. "And I just want you safe," he murmured.
Before she could respond, his lips brushed hers in a brief, searing kiss. It was over in an instant, leaving her trembling with emotions she didn't want to feel.
"I… I should go," she whispered, pulling away.
"You're not going anywhere," Damian said, his voice leaving no room for argument. "Not until I know you're safe."