Chapter 12

Ashley’s POV

The moment I stepped into my room, my heart was already racing from Steven's abrupt message. His words held a power over me that left me feeling small and exposed, yet somehow... captivated. I quickly slipped on the first dress I saw, not bothering to check the mirror. As I took a deep breath, I couldn’t shake the strange pull he had on me—an irresistible mix of danger and attraction. It was a feeling I couldn’t explain, and it scared me.

Outside, I froze at the sight of a sleek black car parked by the curb, guarded by two men. They were tall, broad-shouldered, and wore casual clothes with dark sunglasses, almost like movie stars. I felt my heart skip as I walked toward them, my nerves mixing with curiosity.

Then, one of them turned. He slowly lowered his shades, revealing a familiar pair of intense eyes.

“Steven!” I blurted out, my voice sounding more eager than I intended.

His lips curled into a knowing smirk. “Staring, are we? Surprised?”

I quickly looked down, feeling