~Aria~

I didn't process his words fast.

When I eventually did, instead of the shocking gasp, my fingers dug into my palms, my body stiffening.

‘Oh, this was it. This has been his reason for showing care towards me,’ I thought in my head, my stomach knotting.

Foolish me, I should have known no man would ever help me without expecting anything in return.

Except Damon.

Tears stung my eyes.

I inhaled a shouldered breath, begging myself to hold it in.

I couldn't crumble now.

Not right now and not before him!

“What do you mean…” I managed to ask, my voice quiet and almost trembling.

“You heard me correctly.”...