After sending her uncle off, Serena walked back to the small room she had turned into a makeshift bedroom. The door creaked softly as she pushed it open, her steps slowing as she froze in place.
"Aiden…" she said, her voice barely above a whisper.
He was there, lounging in the chair like he belonged to the space, yet his presence consumed it entirely. His gaze met hers, dark and intent, a heat simmering in his eyes that sent a shiver down her spine. Her heartbeat quickened and she took a hesitant step forward, as if compelled, her lips parted as she struggled to find her voice. "Why are you looking at me like that?" she finally managed, her tone tinged with curiosity and a flicker of unease.