The playroom felt different tonight.
Not frightening. Not exactly. But unfamiliar.
Aria stood near the doorway, her fingers twisting together nervously as she took in the softly lit room. The warm amber lighting removed much of the intimidating atmosphere she'd felt during her first visit. What had once seemed like a place full of unknown dangers now felt strangely comforting. Because Dominic was here. And because every experience so far had taught her the same lesson: he never pushed, never rushed, never ignored her fears.
Dominic noticed her hesitation immediately.
"Nervous?"
"A little, Sir."
His expression softened. "A little?"
She smiled sheepishly. "Maybe more than a little."
That earned a quiet chuckle from him. "Thank you for your honesty."
The knot in her stomach loosened
