*Adrian's POV:*
As I held Stella close, her subtle skin against mine sent a spark of electricity through my body. Her scent, so natural and intoxicating, wrapped around me, making my desire for her surge. This moment was supposed to be emotional, a comforting gesture, but I found myself wanting to claim her right here and now.
I gritted my teeth, fighting to control my primal instincts. I couldn't let my little brother's influence get the better of me. But Stella's soft sobs weren't helping. I wanted to be the one making her cry, to be the one she surrendered to.
What was wrong with me? This was literally the first time I'd ever comforted someone, and yet, I felt like I was losing control. Stella had a charm, a spell that was weaving its way around my heart.
As I continued to hold her, she slowly calmed down, her sobs subsiding. She cleaned her eyes, her voice barely above a whisper as she muttered, "Thank you."
I smiled, my voice low and gentle. "Where is your home, Stella?"
She hesitated, trying to rearrange herself, before responding, "Shadow Valley."
I raised an eyebrow, intrigued. Shadow Valley was a mysterious place, shrouded in secrecy. As I gazed into Stella's innocent face, I couldn't help but feel a pang of sympathy. She was beautiful, with an air of vulnerability that tugged at my heartstrings. Living in Shadow Valley, I imagined her life had been marked by hardship and struggle.
But I quickly pushed aside the sentiment, reminding myself that women weren't worth pitying. Give them an inch, and they'd take a mile, misusing any opportunity that came their way. I'd learned that lesson the hard way, and I wasn't about to forget it...
*Stella's pov:*
As I extracted myself from the emotional encounter, I felt a sense of security wash over me, thanks to the mysterious man clad in black. His strong arms had been a refuge, a sanctuary from the chaos. When he offered to give me a ride, I accepted, grateful for the help, as I had no idea where I was.
As I gazed at him straddling the bike, he exuded an air of coolness, like a gangster, and I felt a shiver run down my spine. I hopped on, sitting up straight, and as soon as he started the bike, I wrapped my arms around him, holding on for dear life.
Whoa, I had thought Fiona drove fast, but this was on a whole different level! The wind rushed past me, and I felt like I was on a jet, not a bike. The rush was exhilarating, but also terrifying.
Finally, after what felt like an eternity, he came to an abrupt stop, and I bumped my head against his back. Rubbing the sore spot, I heard him ask, "Where's your house?"