25. My Misery Entertains You?

Avery’s POV

"So let's say, just for argument's sake, that I believe you. What exactly were you rescuing me from?" I asked, my voice low and steady, attempting to mask the uncertainty that fluttered like a caged bird within my chest.

"If I told you... I'd have to kill you," he replied, the sarcasm in his voice thick enough to cut through the chilled air between us.

"Touché," I retorted sharply. "And what's stopping me from mindlinking your brother?" My challenge hung heavy, a tangible force in the growing tension.

His expression shifted, a flicker of intrigue crossing his features as he stepped closer, closing the distance between us with a single, deliberate movement. I fought every instinct telling me to retreat, to maintain distance, as he leaned in, his breath faintly sweet with the scent of vanilla, whispering intensely, "Am I hurting you, Avery?"

His proximity was overwhelming, his scent enveloping me, so fierce it invaded all my senses. For a moment, I was rendered speechless, m