Chapter 8 : Faces of Evil

*Lily*

Adrian walked beside me, his presence both comforting and confusing as we traded along the dimly lit pathways of Elysium. The night's chill seeped through my skin, making me regret not carrying a jacket with me tonight. But it wasn't this regret that made me shiver—it was the regret for abruptly breaking the moment we shared and avoiding Adrian’s kiss.

I wrapped my arms around myself, more out of reflex than to fend off the cool air.

"Are you cold?" Adrian's voice suddenly sliced through the silence.

"A little," I admitted, my gaze fixated on the cobblestones, their edges blurred by what I assumed was the alcohol I had consumed tonight.

"Here." Without a second thought, Adrian slipped off his own jacket and offered it to me. His actions were a balm, yet they only served to intensify the confusion that had taken root within me. To say I was shocked by his sudden chivalry and concern for me was an understatement.

I believed he had been raised well, learning proper manner