Ria’s heartbeat slammed violently against her chest as she tried to force herself out of the grip, but his hold only tightened.

Without warning, Michael pulled her into him.

Ria froze instantly as his arms wrapped around her firmly and protectively, as though shielding her from something unseen that is lurking beyond the room. She could hear the brutal pounding of his heartbeat beneath his chest, it was fast and uneven against her ear.

Then he stilled for a bit as his breathing deepened suddenly.

She quickly recognized his scent.

“M… Michael!” she gasped, staring up at him in shock.

But Michael didn’t let go of her,instead he tightened the...