The villa breathed with the rhythm of the ocean, the salt-heavy air drifting through the open French doors to stir the sheer white curtains. Moonlight spilled across the hardwood floors in jagged silver shards, illuminating the path to the bedroom where the scent of jasmine and cedar lingered.
Aria stepped inside, the soft soles of her feet barely making a sound. She felt the weight of Rafael's gaze on her back, a physical pressure that gave her goosebumps.
Rafael stopped a pace behind her.He reached out, his fingers grazing the silk of her shoulder strap. The contact was light, almost tentative, but it sent a jolt through Aria that settled deep in her marrow.
"You look like you belong here," Rafael whispered, his voice a low rasp that vibrated in the quiet room.
