"Wait... it's Mr. Corrigan, isn’t it? I’ve always thought the way he looks at you is different. Cold to everyone else, but with you, his eyes—it’s like he wants to devour you."

Emerald’s spine went cold. *She actually guessed it!*

"Ember? Is your silence a confirmation?"

Desperate to escape the situation, Emerald gasped for air as Alaric finally released her lips. She stammered in response, "Y-yes, it’s him."

Alaric was visibly pleased with her answer and wasted no time. His hand, which had been under her neck, slid lower, brushing against the soft fabric of her thin cotton pajamas.

His warm hand met her bare skin, and Emerald nearly gasped...