The Kiss That Said Everything

I stared at Adrian, his words echoing in my mind. "You. I would get you."

My heart hammered against my ribcage as I tried to process what he was saying. There was something both terrifying and thrilling about the way he looked at me—like I was precious, valuable, something to be claimed and protected.

"Adrian," I started, not even sure what I wanted to say. "This is all happening so fast."

He took another step closer, his minty scent wrapping around me like an invisible embrace. "Is it? It doesn't feel fast to me. It feels like I've been waiting for you."

I glanced around the room—my room now, apparently. Everything had been arranged with such care, all my belongings meticulously replaced. The gesture was overwhelming.

"Thank you for all of this," I said, gesturing around. "For replacing my things after... after what happened."

His jaw tightened. "Fiona Bennett will be dealt with. No one touches what's mine."