_Aria's POV_
“Stay calm,” he whispered against my ear. “I only want to talk.”
His hand was still over my mouth. His arm was tight around my body. I could feel his breath. I could feel his heartbeat through his chest pressed to my back.
My whole body was shaking.
Ryan.
It was really him.
My mind struggled to catch up with what my eyes were seeing. My fear had not gone away. It had only changed shape. My heart was still racing. My skin felt cold and hot at the same time.
“You’re in danger,” he said quietly. “You need to listen to me.”
I tried to pull away.
“Ouch,” he hissed softly as my elbow hit his side.
Before I could move again, his grip tightened.
Outside the fitting room, I heard Lucien’s voice.
“Aria?” he called. His tone was warm and easy. “Is everything fine in there? Do
