[Jersey]
The knock came soft at first. Then again. Firmer.
"Jersey?"
My stomach dropped. My mom’s voice cut through the door like a blade, sharp with worry.
I froze. Completely. My whole body went stiff against the mattress, my breath caught in my throat.
Ryder didn’t even flinch. His arm was heavy around me, his breathing maddeningly steady.
I tried to move, to push his arm off, but his grip only tightened, drawing me back flush against him.
Another knock, quicker this time. "Jersey, are you up?"
Oh God. Oh God.
I squirmed, my heart thundering in my chest, but Ryder’s lips brushed my ear, his voice a husky whisper that slid right under my skin.
"Relax."
I turned my head sharply, glaring at him, panic flaring hot in my throat. "Ryder—she’s at the door—"
"Exactly why you need to
