Chapter 123

Aiden's POV As soon as I pulled into the garage, I cut the engine and turned to study Aria. Her cheeks were flushed a deep crimson, her breathing shallow and rapid. "We're home," I said simply. She blinked, seeming to emerge from a daze. "Oh... right." She fumbled with her seatbelt, practically stumbling out of the car. I watched carefully as she swayed slightly on her feet. "You okay?" I asked, moving to her side. "Just dizzy," she admitted, pressing her hand against her flushed cheek. "And so hot. Do I have a fever?" "You're drunk," I said bluntly. Her eyes widened in genuine surprise. "That's impossible. I only had juice with Claire, and then that fruit drink while I was waiting for you." "Fruit wine," I corrected her. "Really?" She looked genuinely shocked, and I felt a surge of protectiveness wash over me. Before I could say anything else, Aria's lips crashed into mine, catching me completely off guard. Her small hands fisted in my shirt, pulling me closer with surprising strength