Chapter 184

Calliope could feel cold sweat breaking out down her back. What the hell was this guy trying to pull? A couple of random run-ins, and now he's talking like it's destiny? Get real. She instinctively took a step back, trying to put some space between herself and this dangerously unpredictable man. But maybe she stepped too far-her already sore waist suddenly gave out, and before she could brace herself, she started to fall straight backward. A strong arm shot out just in time, wrapping around her waist and pulling her back up on her feet. Even through the thin fabric, the heat of his body seared into her skin-familiar, yet jarringly new. Calliope recoiled like she'd been shocked, yanking his hand off her as she stumbled several steps back. "Mr. Hilliard!" she said anxiously, her voice wavering a little. "Those things before... they were honestly just coincidences. If any of it gave you the wrong idea, I truly apologize." Watching her panic and scramble to distance herself left the man's