Chapter 43

His hands are braced on the frame. His eyes are two black holes that suck me into the abysmal abyss that never ceases to end, dragging me into a darkness that swallows thought and breath itself.. His powerful stare is a palpable grip, not even needing to touch me to evoke a maelstrom of emotions—feelings that I fear most.

I throw myself against the door to push it close. He slams one mere hand on the door, driving it open, my feet skidding back. Botan bursts inside, sending me staggering back. He closes the door behind him coolly. Fear pulses through me, awakening panic and my breaths fall short and shallow.

"How… how are you here right now? How did you find me?"

He stares back at me with silent intensity. A dark look eclipsing his face the way clouds pass over the moon. Botan's eyes never leave mine, his expression frighteningly unreadable.