DEAN

My heart was full of helplessness as I looked at Callum, sitting directly across from me in a silent stare-off contest.

He’d barged into my apartment early this morning—the downside of having neighboring units—and yet, hadn't said a single word.

Even my favorite coffee was starting to taste bland under the weight of his stare.

In the end, I gave in.

Setting down my cup, I said, “Out with it already. If I have to endure your intense staring for a moment longer, I'm afraid I'll have goosebumps popping out of my skin.”

He didn’t reply. Just kept narrowing his eyes at me like I owed him something unknown....