CHAPTER 12 Who's The Newcomer?

  Autumn

  "I don't like that answer," Ethan interjected, his veined hand suddenly reaching for my chin, his grip firm.

  My eyes widened as I stared at him, feeling a mixture of fear coursing through me.

  "Whatever you're planning to do, if you're a bad person, it won't work with me... Because... do you want to know why?" he murmured, drawing his face closer to mine. "I can sense your body language." 

  I recoiled, pushing him away instinctively.

  Taking a deep breath to steady myself, I replied, "I didn't ask for this," my voice steady despite the nervousness within me. "You did," I added, my tone tinged with accusation.

  He tightened his jaw, his expression unreadable as he regarded me. "You're different," he remarked, a smile playing on his lips, though it held no hint of warmth.

  I gulped nervously. "Okay, let's just change the topic," I suggested, exhaling heavily. "I don't want to ruin this chance to have somewhere to stay," I added, wrapping my arms around myself.