Whispers of Heat and a Confined Fate

I couldn't look away from Jaxon's burning gaze. Despite his harsh words earlier, his eyes told a different story—one of undeniable jealousy and something deeper that he refused to acknowledge. Rhys noticed my distraction and followed my line of sight.

"Don't worry about him," he whispered, still close enough that I could feel his breath on my cheek. "He'll come around eventually."

"I'm not so sure," I muttered, remembering the coldness in Jaxon's voice when he'd told me our bond was merely functional, not emotional.

Rhys's eyes sparkled with mischief as he suddenly grabbed my shoulders and spun me around. "Hey, Ro! Catch!"

Before I could protest, I was being playfully pushed forward, stumbling directly into Ronan's arms. His strong hands instinctively caught me, steadying my balance as I collided with his broad chest. Looking up, I found myself lost in those icy blue eyes that somehow managed to radiate warmth.

"Sorry," I mumbled, not making any move to step back.