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Chapter 18 – Cracks in the Ice

Author: Inpeaceplace
last update Last Updated: 2025-03-19 16:54:00

Adrian had spent years shielding himself from the world, convincing himself that emotions were nothing more than a burden.

But now, as he sat beside her, his fingers still entwined with hers, he realized something he hadn’t allowed himself to feel in a long time.

Warmth.

Not the fleeting warmth of fire or the sun against his skin. But a deeper, quieter warmth—the kind that settled in the heart and refused to let go.

And it terrified him.

The fire crackled softly, its flickering light casting shifting shadows on the walls. Outside, the rain continued to fall, a rhythmic tapping against the wooden roof.

Adrian knew he should pull away.

But he didn’t.

Her fingers were small against his, yet there was a quiet strength in the way she held on, as if she knew he was on the verge of retreating.

“You don’t have to say anything,” she murmured.

Her voice was soft, carrying no expectat
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