Chapter 15: The Moment That Shouldn’t Have Happened

Ariana's world felt like it had slowed.

Leila's fingertips barely grazed her skin, but the warmth lingered like a silent confession.

She needed to say something.

To break the tension.

To stop this dangerous, forbidden pull.

But her lips wouldn't move.

And Leila knew that.

A small, knowing smile curled on her lips, her gaze locked onto Ariana's—challenging, unyielding.

"You're quiet," Leila murmured.

Ariana finally found her voice. "Because this is stupid."

Leila raised a brow. "Is it?"

Ariana stepped back.

A fraction of space.

Barely noticeable.

But Leila noticed.

And for the first time, something in her expression shifted.

Not teasing.

Not playful.

Something else.

A flicker of something almost vulnerable.

But before Ariana could process it, Leila let out a small chuckle, shaking her head.

"Fine," she said, her voice light, as if nothing had happened.

As if she hadn't just shattered Ariana's sense of control.

"You don't have to run," Leila added, turning to leave.

Ariana stiffened. "I'm not running."

Leila stopped. Looked over her shoulder.

Smirked.

"Then what are you doing?"

Ariana had no answer.

Leila didn't wait for one.

She walked away, her silhouette disappearing into the shadows of the garden.

Ariana stood there, heart pounding, staring after her.

And for the first time, she admitted to herself—

She was losing control.

And Leila knew it.