ALEX Rhys walked me to my room, his arm still around my shoulders, offering warmth and a quiet strength that was both reassuring and a little unsettling. His presence had a way of grounding me, pulling me back from the chaos of the evening. As we reached my door, I could feel the weight of his concern, and though I was used to handling things on my own, I found myself leaning into that support, if only for a moment. “Let me make sure you’re okay,” Rhys said, his tone leaving no room for argument. He wasn’t forceful, but there was a firmness in his voice that made it clear he wasn’t going to leave until he was satisfied I was alright. I didn’t have the energy to argue, so I just nodded and opened the door. My room in the mansion was more than just a bedroom—it was a suite. A plush, king

