NOVA
I swallow hard, picturing a plate of spicy ramen. The kind that is loaded with chili oil, different kinds of peppers, garlic, and that deep, rich broth that burns in the best way. The kind that makes your lips tingle and your body warm from the inside out. The kind you can't stop eating even when it's too hot.
I start salivating.
My thighs press together harder. Marcellus must feel it because his fingers flex against my skin.
I can't do this.
I can't sit here while he touches me like this in front of everyone. I shoot to my feet so fast that I startle everyone.
Every single head turns toward me. The organizer pauses mid-sentence, blinking in surprise.
"Mrs. Gregory?" he says, smiling politely even though confusion lingers on his face. "Do you have something to say?"
My brain c
