One kiss blurred the lines. One question drew blood.

——

"What...?" I asked, my voice brittle and panicked as Alex leaned in toward me, his hand rising, deliberate, precise, hovering just beside my mouth.

"There's a little something here," he murmured, in a low and smooth tone. "Let me get that for you."

I sat still, uncertain, paralyzed under the weight of his closeness. His fingers brushed my bottom lip with a slow tenderness that sent a shiver crawling down my spine.

It felt too intentional. Too gentle. Too familiar.

"Isn't it off?" I asked, trying to regain control, my voice edged in annoyance that felt more like fear.

He...