Chapter 23

Bella's POV

In a split second, his lips landed on my cheek in a soft, lingering peck that sent shivers down my spine. I closed my eyes, savoring the moment, feeling the warmth of his breath against my skin.

"I believe in you, Isabella," he whispered, his voice sending waves of comfort through me. "And if you let me, I'll be right by your side every step of the way."

I opened my eyes to meet his gaze, a mixture of gratitude and something else I couldn't quite decipher. "Thank you, Michael. I don't know what I'd do without you. I really needed this conversation."

His fingers brushed a strand of hair behind my ear, his touch gentle yet electrifying. "I wish you'll never have to find out."

A small smile tugged at the corners of my lips. "Why am I reacting like this?!" I yelled internally at Dessa. Why don't I want him to stop? Why do I like being close to him?

Seeing my flushed reaction, he leaned in again, his lips hovering close to my cheek, his warm breath caressing my skin. "Is it oka