Chapter 35

The door clicks shut behind me, and I lean against it, exhaling firmly, as I let myself slide down. The walls feel safer—quiet, familiar—but my chest still thrums like a trapped heartbeat.

Brother’s presence lingers like smoke. I swear I can still feel the heat of him beside me, the way his energy filled the dining room until I could barely think straight.

I reach for my glasses on the floor, realizing I haven't been using one. After years, I finally get to see without glasses.

After minutes have passed, I get up, toss my glasses on the desk, and drag a hand through my hair.

Just then,

There's a soft knock. Too soft.

And I know who it is—his scent and the pull.

The handle turns, and the door creaks open, and there he is.

He steps inside like he owns the air I breathe. His dark eyes flicker to me, unreadable, dangerous in that quiet, self-assured way of his.

The door clicks shut behind him, sealing us in the charged silence that instantly coils between us.

My heart stutters.

“What are