Sophie’s POV
The office felt suffocating when I returned, the city lights casting long shadows across the walls. Adrian was there, as if waiting, his dark presence filling the space like smoke. My pulse kicked, a mix of anger, defiance, and something far more dangerous—something I refused to name.
“I know where you went,” he said, voice low, tight. There was no question, no accusation—just the certainty that always left me off-balance.
I met his gaze, unflinching. “Does it matter?” I asked, tone sharp. “I have things to handle. My family—what happened to them—it’s bigger than your ego, Adrian. Bigger than your claims.”
His jaw tightened. “You think this is about your family?” His dark eyes flicked to mine, searching, challenging. “It’s about keeping you safe. You’re in danger, Sophie.
