Chapter 5

LYDIA
Dex’s hand settles gently against the hollow of my waist. He stops walking suddenly and pulls me close, his touch firm but careful, as though he’s afraid I might disappear if he lets go. His other hand moves to my cheek, his thumb tracing slow circles against my skin. The simple movement sends shivers down my spine and makes my lips tingle.
His gaze locks with mine—intense, pained, yet determined. There’s so much emotion in his eyes that it roots me in place. I can’t look away even if I want to.