Chapter 12. Live A Little-2

Hearing those simple words seems to stun me into oblivion. I've always craved blind, unwavering loyalty and here I am, being offered this immense commitment from someone I've known for a few days. "I trust you." My shy mutter is caught by Dante, who ambles towards me. "I'm glad to hear that." He's inches away from me, flecks of paint dotted across his thick arms. "I'm glad that you're glad to hear that." Despite the stupid reply, Dante's crooked smile grows wider as he looms over me with a twinkle in his eye. "Ahem." I literally jump out of my skin, mouth open in shock at the sudden intrusion. From my reaction, you'd think some rogue just walked in on us. Standing over the threshold of the open door is Nora, arms folded and feigning a stern demeanour. "Hi-- Nora!" I yelp, waving uselessly. "Erm-- this isn't what it looks like." "You have the worst timing, mother dearest." Dante groans, his warm b