Eric's POV: Cheryl had an irresistible allure, like a perfectly ripened cherry exuding a tantalizing sweetness. She effortlessly drew the attention of anyone who passed by, sparking their desire and convincing them she was the one thing worth admiring, worth reaching for. I had to admit—I wanted her. The desire was raw and overwhelming, almost enough to drive me out of my mind. But what surprised me the most was that when she rejected me, leaving me stranded at the edge of that desire, I didn't feel angry. 'I know who I am. The perfect image I project to the world is just a mask, held together by a release of emotions through violence and s*x—ways to quiet the nameless anxieties and cravings that haunt me.' And yet, with Cheryl, I didn't need to take her completely. Her kisses, her em

