Chapter 13

“Olivia, are you okay?” Mia’s voice broke through the charged silence, breaking the trance between Olivia and Ethan.

Ethan quickly came to his senses. He gently steadied Olivia as she found her footing again. But as she put weight on her left foot, a searing pain shot up her leg.

“Ah!” Olivia cried out, her face contorting. All eyes turned toward her in worry.

“My leg!” she gasped again through gritted teeth.

Without a second thought, Ethan swiftly scooped Olivia into his arms, cradling her against his chest. She let out a startled yelp, her arms instinctively winding around his neck as he lifted her with ease.

An undeniable blush crept onto Olivia’s cheeks at their sudden closeness. She could feel the firm muscles of his chest against her side and couldn’t help but notice his clean, woodsy scent. Ethan’s brow was furrowed in concern as he carried her to the plush couch and gently placed her there.

As Ethan lifted Olivia into his arms, Mia’s breath caught in her throat, her eyes widen