Naomi’s pov :
I hesitated outside Elias's door. My hand trembled on the knob, the bond tugging at me like an invisible thread, urging me forward despite the storm of emotions churning in my chest. Guilt from our car argument still gnawed at me,his accusations ringing true in ways I hated to admit. I'd run before, and helping Lucy had stirred old wounds.
But beneath it, that subtle admiration I'd felt through the bond warmed me, conflicting with the cold divide he'd erected. Taking a deep breath, I turned the knob and slipped inside.
The room was dimly lit, a single lamp casting a golden glow over the space. Heavy curtains blocked the moonlight, and the air carried his signature pine-smoke scent, thick and intoxicating, wrapping around me like a claim.
Elias sat on the leather
