[Elena's POV]

The greenhouse suddenly felt very hot. And it wasn't because of the heaters for the orchids.

It was because of what I just said.

"I was thinking about you."

The words hung in the air between us. Noah's hand was still on my chin, his thumb resting near my lip. For a moment, the cruel, cold mask he always wore slipped. He looked... human. Surprised.

But then, panic hit me like a bucket of ice.

Stupid, Elena. Stupid!

I bit the inside of my cheek. I remembered the contract I signed. It was thick, full of legal words I barely understood, but one rule was very clear: No...