Chapter 19

Bryan's POV

My arms were still wrapped around Emelda, the warmth of her body against mine causing my hormones to swirl up and my mind racing with imagination when the kitchen door swung open.

It was Jonathan.

Emelda and I were too late to break off from our initial position. Jonathan paused in his track, his eyes flicking between us, his expression unreadable.

For a moment, it seemed like time stood still, the silence heavy with unspoken questions or words from either of us.

The awkward silence stretched on for what felt like an eternity.

And then, in a gesture that was almost dismissive, he looked away, smiling faintly as he coughed to clear his throat.

Moving his gaze and allowing his eyes to fall on Emelda, Jonathan finally broke the silence, his voice calm and measured. "Emelda," he said, "Are you ready for today?"

Emelda stiffened, I could tell as I watched her, her body tensing with a sudden alertness.

She glanced up at Jonathan, her eyes wide and uncertain, before turning.