“He just…”
The words refused to come easily.
“…runs his mouth.”
Silence settled between us.
Not uncomfortable.
Patient.
“What kind of things?”
I swallowed.
“The kind of things women get told when men think there won’t be consequences.”
His expression didn’t change. His eyes did. They hardened.
I reached for another paper towel.
“It’s fine.”
“No.”
The word wasn’t loud.
It wasn’t angry.
It was simply… certain.
“No, it isn’t.”
Before I could respond, warm fingertips brushed lightly beneath my chin.
I froze.
He wasn’t grabbing me.
Wasn’t forcing my head up.
His fingers barely touched my skin as he lifted my gaze until our eyes met. The instant I followed the movement on my own, he stopped.
The contact never became a grip. It was over almost before it started.
“Has he don
