Velvet’s POV

I took a step back without thinking.

“Jack…” I whispered, but my voice broke.

He looked different, colder, harder. His jaw was tight, and his eyes burned with something I couldn’t name.

I turned to leave, but before I could reach the door, his hand grabbed my wrist. His grip was firm.

“Where do you think you’re going?” he asked. His voice was sharp.

I didn’t answer. My heart was beating too fast.

He pulled me back inside and kicked the door shut. The sound made me flinch.

“Let go,” I said quietly, but he didn’t.

He moved closer, his face only inches from mine. “You can’t even...