Chapter 48: Too late

Esmerelda

If I’m being brutally honest with myself, this is probably a disastrous idea. Even Frankie, who has a knack for turning bad ideas into adventures, would agree. The thought of giving him just one kiss feels impossible. But if I can somehow manage it, maybe he’ll stop pursuing me. If I can’t… Well, the consequences are a mystery I can’t afford to unravel. Despite the turmoil in my mind, my feet betray me, carrying me toward the office door he holds open.

As I step into the room, the door clicks shut behind me, sealing us in. I’ve never been in here before; my only glimpses have been through the doorway. My heart pounds as I take in the space. It’s undeniably masculine, from the sleek, modern desk to the rich, dark wood accents. The air is thick with his scent—black currant and cedarwood—an intoxicating blend that both calms my nerves and soothes my queasy stomach.

I force myself to breathe deeply, trying to steady my racing heart. The room feels smaller with him in it, his pre