The moment they stepped into the house, the silence between them was loud—almost deafening. Katherine walked a few steps ahead, her arms crossed tightly over her chest. Jake could feel the shift in her mood like a wall slamming between them.
“Katherine…” he called softly, but she didn’t respond.
She kept walking, her steps faster now, heading straight toward the stairs. Jake frowned and caught up to her, slipping his arm around her waist—but she pulled away.
He paused.
“Don’t do this,” he muttered, reaching for her again and gently tugging her back to him. “Don’t give me the silent treatment. It hurts.” His voice dropped as he pouted, pulling her closer and brushing a soft kiss against her lips.
She flinched back.
“Don’t kiss me,” she said firmly, eyes narrowed.
Jake grinned, tiltin
