Bethel's Pov
"The... the definition of a lease," I began, my voice trembling only slightly now, "is a contract, or part of a contract, that conveys the right to use an asset..."
I kept reading, forcing my eyes to stay glued to the page. *Identified asset. Right to obtain substantially all economic benefits.* The words were dry, technical, safe. They didn't smell like expensive cologne or sound like low, dangerous whispers.
But then he shifted.
It was just a small movement—the rustle of fabric as he adjusted his stance—but my entire body went rigid. My breath hitched mid-sentence. The word *economic* died in my throat, replaced by a sudden, traitorous awareness of how close he was standing. How still. How *watchful*.
"Bethel."
His voice was soft. Too soft. Like velvet wrapped around s
