Chapter 02
Cole’s fingers barely skimmed my arm, calloused and warm. The contact was featherlight, but it sent a shiver racing down my spine.
I should’ve stepped back. Should’ve said thank you for the help and shown him to the door. But instead, I froze, staring at him like I could memorize every shadow etched into his face.
“Clara,” he said my name like a warning, low and rough.
My lips parted. “What?”
His jaw clenched. “Don’t.”
The word stung more than it should’ve. My pride bristled, but underneath, something far more dangerous ached. He didn’t move, though—didn’t pull away. His hand stayed on my arm, fingers brushing a slow path down to my wrist. The kind of touch that wasn’t accidental, wasn’t friendly.
“You’re married,” he added, his voice quieter now.
I hated how much it mad
