Caroline’s breath hitched as Damon held her, his warmth seeping into her skin like a balm, yet the chill of her doubts still clung to her heart. She closed her eyes, feeling the beat of his heart beneath her palm, but in the back of her mind, a whisper of fear still lingered—what if this was just another fleeting moment, another illusion that would dissolve the moment her guard lowered completely?
Damon seemed to sense her hesitation, the way her body stiffened slightly against his. His fingers traced delicate patterns across the skin of her back, the gesture gentle yet insistent, a wordless promise to keep her grounded.
“I know you’re scared,” Damon’s voice was low and husky, his lips brushing her ear. “But you don’t have to face this alone. Not anymore.”
Caroline’s heart fluttered pai
