DANTE’S POV
I had never learned how to stand still when something mattered, I never learned how to ignore danger when I could clearly see it approaching and I wasn’t about to do that right now, I didn’t want to. Every instinct in me had always been forged around one truth, protect what is mine, no matter the cost. No matter who bleeds. No matter who burns.
And now Selene stood across from me, arms folded tight over her chest, eyes sharp with suspicion instead of fear, and for the first time in my life… I didn’t know where to put my hands. Didn’t know how not to reach for her.
“You don’t trust me,” I said quietly.
The words felt heavier spoken aloud. Selene didn’t deny it. That alone was an answer.
“You question everything I do,” I continued, forcing myself to keep my voice even. “Ever
