Not One To Shy Away

Rain's heart skipped a beat. "Alexander," she whispered, trying to keep her composure. "How long have you been standing there?"

"Long enough," he replied, his gaze fixed on her. "Long enough to hear what that man said—and to wonder why he'd dare mention stealing something that isn't as hard as stealing you."

Rain offered a soft smile, stepping closer. "It's just Henry being his usual self. The man's notorious for his mood swings and crazy remarks," she said, her smile turning awkward.

But Alexander's jaw tightened. Without a word, he simply said, "Let's go."

He turned and walked ahead, leaving Rain to follow in silence. As they got into the car, she could feel the tension thick between them. Alexander's mood was clearly off, and it made her uneasy. Worse, she noticed they weren't heading in the usual direction.

"Where are we going?" she asked.