Rayla clung to Asher’s hand as they made their way through the dense trees, the moonlight filtering through the branches above casting eerie shadows on the forest floor. The party was far behind them now, the blasting music replaced by the soft rustle of leaves and the occasional hoot of an owl. The air was cool and crisp, and the scent of pine filled her nostrils.
She was terrified of tripping and kissing the ground—or worse, falling into some hidden ditch. Every step felt precarious, the uneven terrain hidden by the darkness. But Asher’s hand was warm and steady in hers, his grip firm as he led her deeper into the woods.
“You okay back there?” Asher asked, his voice low and teasing.
Rayla tightened her grip on his hand, her heart pounding. “Not really. I can’t see a thing, and I’m pre
