Chapter 84

As I stared at Chase's hand, wrapped around mine, a flutter danced in my chest. His touch sent shivers down my spine, but not fear. Not this time. A spark of curiosity ignited within me, illuminating the dark corners of my mind where doubts and uncertainty lurked.

But I pushed it all down.

I looked up at Chase, and our eyes met in a silent understanding. The same piercing gaze that had captivated me from the start now held a deeper significance. I saw the same man I'd fallen for – the same strong jawline, the same chiseled features. But now, I knew his secret.

"I'm scared, Chase," I admitted, my voice barely above a whisper. The words trembled on my lips, vulnerable and exposed.

Chase's grip tightened, his fingers intertwining with mine. "I know," he whispered back, his breath caressing my skin. "But I'll never hurt you." His promise was a lifeline, thrown into the turbulent sea of my emotions.

I wanted to believe him. I wanted to trust him. To trust that the monster he'd revealed was