#Chapter 13 – It’s a Trap

Lila Damon’s grip lingered for a moment longer than necessary, his fingers a vice around my waist. I could feel the strength behind them, the restraint he was forcing upon himself. "I have a curfew," I said, forcing my voice to remain steady. "If I’m late, I’ll be scrubbing toilets for a week." Damon’s jaw tightened, but his hold loosened. "Curfew," he repeated, almost like the word was foreign to him. I nodded, feeling the heat of his hand even as he slowly withdrew it. I took a step back, putting space between us, even though the warmth of his touch still lingered on my skin like a brand. Damon exhaled sharply, his gaze narrowing. "Go, then." I didn’t hesitate. I turned and ran, not daring to look back. The night air was cool against my flushed skin, but it did little to soothe the chaos raging inside me. My legs carried me swiftly through the palace grounds, my heart pounding with every step. Why does he affect me like this? I wasn’t supposed to feel anything fo