Shadows of desire

Chapter 6: Secrets in the Shadows

The night stretched on, thick with unspoken tension. Amara sat curled up on the couch, trying to shake the feeling that someone was watching her. Jide was near the window, his broad frame silhouetted against the city lights.

She studied him in the dim glow of her apartment. There was something about the way he carried himself—always in control, always watching. He was dangerous, but in a way that made her feel protected rather than afraid.

"Whoever called you tonight," Jide said finally, "they wanted to scare you. But I don't think that's all. I think they're warning you."

Amara swallowed. "Warning me about what?"

Jide turned to face her, his dark eyes unreadable. "That's what I intend to find out."

She frowned. "Why do you care so much?"

His jaw tightened. "Because I don't like seeing fear in your eyes, Amara."

His words sent a shiver through her.

He crossed the room, kneeling before her. His fingers brushed against her knee, a touch so light yet electrifying. "Trust me," he murmured.

She wanted to. But a voice in the back of her mind whispered: Can you?

She exhaled, shaking her head. "I don't even know you, Jide. Not really."

Something flickered in his gaze—something dark, restrained. "And yet, you let me in."

Her breath hitched. He was right. She had never been this reckless before. She didn't take risks, didn't trust easily. So why him?

Jide leaned in, his lips brushing against her temple. "I'm not going to hurt you," he whispered.

She believed him. But there was something he wasn't telling her.

And deep down, she had the feeling that Jide carried secrets of his own—ones that could be just as dange

rous as the voice on the phone.