Chapter 53

Dominic’s pov ; As soon as I saw her step into the car, I caught the distinct scent of the tea clinging to her clothes. The eldest son of the Flensky family, Christopher, was known for his refined tastes and mysterious demeanor, an elegant face masking shrewd intentions. People like him—people who played at subtle games—were hardly the sort I wanted Sophie entangled with. She’s innocent, trusting, like a little white rabbit. She’s too pure for the intricate schemes of this world. And I can’t always be around to protect her. My best option was to keep her far from such influences. “Stay away from him,” I said quietly. She nodded, her voice soft. “I see.” For the rest of the ride, I noticed her head dipping slightly, fighting the drowsiness. But every time I glanced at her, she was curled tightly in the corner of the car, as if deliberately keeping a distance, clearly cautious. “If you’re tired, come over and sleep,” I finally said. She jolted awake, her cheeks coloring as she shook her