Ava's POV
The rhythmic sound of running water filled the quiet kitchen as I scrubbed the last plate, watching the soap bubbles swirl down the drain. The packhouse was unusually silent after lunch, the lingering scent of roasted meat and fresh bread still hanging in the air. My muscles ached, exhaustion weighing on my limbs, but I found solace in these small tasks.
A sudden warmth ghosted against my back, a presence so close my body tensed on instinct. Before I could react, a firm hand reached around me, stealing the plate from my grasp.
"I told you to take some rest," Liam grumbled, his deep voice sending a shiver down my spine.
I turned my head slightly, meeting his stern gaze. His sharp features were unreadable, but there was something softer beneath the dominance, a quiet concern he
