An Audacious Proposal

AURORA

I slammed my hand against the drawer, stopping Liam from pulling it open. The clash of our bodies was electric with tension.

"I said no," I hissed between clenched teeth.

His eyes widened at my resistance. For ten years, I'd been his doormat. His shoulder to cry on. His emotional support system. But not anymore.

"Aurora, move your hand," he ordered.

I glared at him, my fingers pressing harder against the wood. "Get out of my room, Liam."

"This is my family's house," he countered, leaning closer until I could smell his cologne—the one I'd bought him last Christmas. "And you're my best friend. You don't keep secrets from me."

"Watch me," I snapped.

The shock on his face would have been comical if I wasn't so furious. He recovered quickly, his expression hardening.

"What has he done to you?" he whispered. "The Aurora I know wouldn't—"

"The Aurora you know is tired of being controlled." I pushed against his chest, creating space between us. "I'm leaving."