Chapter 113

• As Charlotte navigated the bustling street, weaving through throngs of people, an unexpected feeling of dread settled over her. The cacophony of laughter and conversation buzzed in her ears, but the volume of her heartbeat drowned it out. She clutched Leo’s hand tightly, squeezing it as they walked side by side, trying to anchor herself in the moment. Spending time in the city had been a chance to escape her worries, but as she glanced back and saw Damien navigating the crowd behind them, her pulse quickened.
• Damien was exquisite, an Austin resembling the light that flickered amidst her storm. Just a day ago, their kiss had ignited something fierce within her, a mix of longing and fear. And now, here he was, an all-too-real reminder of the connection they had once shared. But it was more than that. The way Leo's laughter carried across the street, the way he looked at the world with wide-eyed wonder—they mirrored Damien’s own traits far too closely for Charlotte’s comfort.
• As they reached a quieter alleyway, she felt Damien’s presence gain on them, his footsteps echoing with a mixture of urgency and apprehension. Before she could gather her thoughts, he closed the distance, leaning in toward her, his voice barely above a whisper.