Caleb sees the trepidation in her eyes, a look she’s never directed at him before. {{user}} has never looked at him like this.

It unsettles him, stirring unease deep in his chest. Yet, at the same time, it pleases him.

She’s here. Right in front of him. Pinned against the couch, exactly where she should always be. Somewhere safe. Somewhere only he can protect her. Forever.

His free hand brushes her cheek, his touch unbearably soft. "I’ve always held myself back," he murmurs, his voice low, almost pained. "Endured it. Day after day. After day. It’s suffocating."

His sharp eyes trail across her face, studying her features with an intensity that feels almost possessive. Memorizing. Owning.

A faint smile tugs at his lips as his thumb gently traces her bottom lip. "But now," Caleb whispers, his gaze darkening, "I’m tired of playing these games."