9 — Looking out for my property

S E L E N A

Pedro’s arms were wrapped around me, and I could feel the warmth of his body through my clothes. My back pressed against his chest, and I could feel his heart beating rapidly against my back. I inhaled deeply, the scent of his cologne filling my senses. It was a heady, intoxicating smell, and it was making me feel light-headed.

I found myself melting into his embrace, my body relaxing against his chest as if it were a place I had always belonged. His hand gently held me close, rocking me slightly in his arms. I felt safe and protected like nothing bad could ever happen to me while I was there. I knew I should pull away, but I couldn't bring myself to do it.

Time seemed to slow down, and for a moment, it was like we were the only two people in the world. But then I heard a sharp intake of breath, followed by the sound of someone clearing their throat behind us.

"Uh, um," the voice stammered, and I jumped away from Pedro, breaking his hold on me. The realization of what we h