Chapter 136

• The clock on the nightstand glowed 3 a.m., its red digits piercing the dark. Rain still drummed relentlessly outside, a wild symphony against the window.
• Charlotte's eyes stayed closed, her breathing deep and peaceful in sleep. She'd rolled away earlier, back to Howard on the too-small bed that forced their bodies near. Slumber claimed her fully, oblivious.
• But sleep evaded Howard entirely. He stared at the ceiling, mind racing, until his gaze drifted to her sleeping form—the gentle curve of her small frame, the tempting closeness he couldn't ignore.