Chapter 14: Chapter 14: It Wasn’t Me

Adeline’s POV

I watch Zale’s back as he walks away, his fluffy hair bouncing slightly with each step. I sigh and lean back in the chair, already missing his earthy scent. It’s been a long two days here without him.

I want to scold myself for not acting rationally when he walked into the room unexpectedly. I had assumed he wouldn’t be returning home until later this evening, so I was shocked to see him, and I think that’s why I acted without thinking.

“Remember the contract.”

His words shiver down my spine with how icy each syllable sounded off his tongue. I didn’t think he would respond that way to a simple hug, especially after the little flirty comments we had exchanged in the past. It was unexpected.

After sitting in silence for a moment, watching the doorway to the library hoping Zale might walk back into the room to sit beside me silently while I read, I realize he isn’t coming back and decide to check the time on my phone. 3:05 p.m.