Zach's POV

Gabe's smile grew wider as I froze.

"That definitely got your attention, didn't it?"

"Just speak, Gabe." I let out through gritted teeth.

He arched a mocking eyebrow. "Have you forgotten your sense of hospitality? The least you could do is let me in and offer me a cup of coffee or tea. Or do you intend to have this conversation on the doorstep?"

Gabe's smug grin widened, the implication clear. He knew exactly how to push my buttons, how to unearth the buried pain. For a moment, I stood frozen, caught between the need to slam the door shut and the morbid curiosity gnawing at me.

Then,...