Betrayed

"Zara, what are you and Nana planning over there?" Zane's voice rang out, startling Zara from her thoughts.

Her heart jumped. Without thinking, she shoved Ace back, darting out of the house and slamming the door shut behind her. "Nothing!" she called, forcing a smile that felt anything but natural.

Ace arched a brow. "You just pushed me like some criminal."

Before he could say another word, she grabbed his wrist and yanked him toward the side of the house, her flour-covered hand clamping over his mouth.

"Shut up," she hissed.

Ace froze. Then his brows twitched.

His tongue flicked out slightly, tasting the flour before he spat. "Ugh." He pulled her hand away, scowling. "What the hell, Zara?"

She rolled her eyes, wiping her hands on her apron, only to catch a glimpse of herself in his stare. Strands of hair clung to her forehead, flour smudged her cheek, and her apron was a complete mess.

Ace's gaze lingered, unimpressed. Judgy.