His Distrust

[Hindrick’s POV]

I wait as Utica continues to stare me down with those damned eyes that seem to see deep into the very depths of my soul. Something about them is so unnerving, but I refuse to break our stare down.

"Well?" I repeat in frustration. "Are you afraid that I’m going to bite?"

"Maybe," Utica responds, causing Andria to break into a fit of giggles. "Could you not encourage her?"

"Don’t take your frustration out on Andria," Elleric warns. "Don’t you think if you were less harsh, the girl would be more willing to oblige your request?"

Less harsh? I wasn’t being harsh to begin with, now was I? This was my usual way of speaking.

"It’s fine," Utica finally says, beginning to come forward. "I’ll do as you say since I’m feeling thankful for your helping me."

Nodding, I watch until she is standing right beside me. Only when she stops moving entirely do I reach out and grab her hand.

Immediately, a wave of warmth and comfort crashed into me, pushing aside the darkness that was threate