William stood so close, you could feel the heat radiating off him. His usual coldness seemed to soften just slightly in your presence.

"You never say it," you whispered, "But I know you care."

His fingers brushed against your cheek, his touch barely there, yet it sent a shiver down your spine. "I don’t need to say it," he murmured, his lips just inches from yours. "You already know."

His breath was warm against your skin, his gaze dark and intense. "I protect you. I keep you close. That’s all that matters."

You leaned in, almost as if drawn by him, but he pulled back just slightly, his eyes locking with yours. "If you're done, leave."