The car moved like a shadow through the night, silent but full of unspoken tension. Bella's mind raced, trying to process everything—gunfire, betrayal, the way Damien had taken a life without hesitation.
Yet, the only thing she could focus on was him.
The way his jaw clenched in thought. The way his fingers drummed against his thigh. The way he had said, You stay with me.
As if she had a choice.
Leo pulled the car into a secluded estate, hidden behind towering gates and endless security. The moment they parked, Damien was out, opening her door before she could even reach for the handle.
"Come inside," he said, offering his hand.
Bella hesitated.
She knew what stepping inside meant.
Not just safety—but surrender.
Still, she placed her palm in his, and he pulled her to her feet. Their bodies brushed, the warmth of him seeping into her skin.
"Damien…" she whispered.
He stiffened. "What?"
She searched his face, trying to find a crack in his armor. "Are you ever afraid?"
A muscle ticked in his jaw. Then—
"I'm afraid of losing control."
His words sent a shiver down her spine.
Because right now, she wasn't sure if he meant control over the situation—
Or control over her.
And even worse?
She wasn't sure which she wanted more.