Chapter 71: I Won’t Force You To Stay

Donovan didn’t react to the alarm in her voice, nor was he offended by it. Instead, he reached out with a surprising warmth, gently patting her head in a way that left Esme bewildered.

His touch was soft, almost affectionate, and when he leaned in close till she could feel his breath against her earlobe, his words were even softer, and it was laced with an undeniable sincerity.