Julian’s POV
I leaned in real slow… like the world would shatter if I rushed it. My lips barely touched hers at first. They were so hot, —soft, trembling under mine. Salt from her tears lingered there, mixing with the faint sweetness that was always just Ava. Her breath came in short, shaky bursts against my mouth, warm and quick, carrying that soft vanilla scent that hit me straight in my chest every time.
She pulled back just a fraction. Not much, but just enough for me to feel it. Her whole body went stiff, her shoulders pressing hard into the wall behind her. I could feel every little shake running through her. Her chest rose and fell fast, brushing mine with each breath.
“Ava…” My voice came out rough, broken. “Please… don’t fight me.”
It wasn’t a command. It was closer to begging
