Ava stepped back and her eyes widened instantly, shock crashing over her like a wave.
What had she just done?
The realization hit all at once, it was sharp, overwhelming and undeniable. Heat rushed to her face, spreading down her neck as her entire body flushed with embarrassment.
The tension in the room didn't ease.
If anything...It deepened.
Because Damian hadn't moved.
He stood exactly where she had left him. Still and silent like time had frozen around him.
"A...I'm sorry…" Ava gasped, her voice barely steady as her hand flew to her mouth. "I didn't...I shouldn't have..."
The words tumbled out in a rush, uneven and breathless.
She turned quickly, panic taking over.
"I'm sorry," she repeated, already reaching for the door.
She needed to leave, needed air.
Needed distance before she completely lost herself.
Her fingers barely wrapped around the handle before she pulled it open...but she didn't step out.
She couldn't.
