**CHAPTER THIRTY-SIX**
*ADRIAN*
I watched Chloe's expression as she waited for my answer, her curiosity barely masked by a façade of casual interest. She was a lot more perceptive than she let on, and the way she observed me suggested she could see through my attempts at feigned nonchalance.
"Nothing you need to worry about," I said, leaning forward to rest my elbows on my knees, trying to seem casual even though my mind was far from at ease.
Chloe’s gaze remained steady, her eyes narrowing slightly as if trying to pierce through my composure. "If it involves you, then I have every right to be concerned," she said softly, her tone leaving no room for argument. "I know you want to protect me, but I need to be prepared for what’s coming. If something's going on, I should know."
I sighed
