“Sophia," came a low whisper.

Her pulse quickened. She recognized that voice. Without a second thought, she crossed the room and opened the door just a crack, peering out into the dimly lit hallway.

There he was, Julian, standing tall and composed, his figure barely visible in the dim light, but she could feel his presence—strong, commanding, and dangerous.

"I thought you left," she whispered, her voice catching.

"I did," he murmured, stepping inside without waiting for an invitation. The door clicked shut behind him, and suddenly, the room felt smaller, the air thicker.

"But I couldn't stay away." Sophia’s breath hitched as she looked at him. There was something...