CH 15
Aria’s lungs tightened as the shadow hovered at the end of the hallway, half-revealed, half-concealed, like a nightmare refusing to step fully into the light. Ethan’s hand pressed gently—yet firmly—at her hip, holding her behind him. His stance was lethal, his breathing sharp, his body wound like a weapon waiting to strike.
The voice that seeped from the darkness was unmistakable. Smooth. Cold. Venom wrapped in silk.
“So… you’ve kept her close, haven’t you?”
Aria’s heartbeat faltered. She didn’t need to see the face to know. The familiarity in that tone crawled inside her bones.
Ethan didn’t move an inch. “Step out,” he growled. “Now.”
A slow, mocking laugh floated out, soft but chilling.
“Still giving orders, Ethan? Even after everything you owe me?”
Aria felt his fingers t
