Chapter 262

Inside the room. The sharp, cold shout of "Get out" instantly jolted Calliope from her haze of exhaustion. Her eyes fluttered open, and she was met with a piercing, dangerous glare. The man's jaw was clenched tight, and his whole body radiated irritation and a dark edge that made it clear he did not like being disturbed. For a second, Calliope truly thought this man was that ruthless second Hilliard son everyone talked about. The vibe was way too real-it completely froze her in place. Maybe realizing she'd freaked out a little, the harshness in his eyes softened almost instantly. He leaned in, lips brushing against hers, warm and meant to comfort. His voice was low and rough, still buzzing with leftover tension. "Don't be scared. Just relax." That breath of reason she had-wondering how he could yell at others here-was steamrolled by the force of his tenderness. All logic left her. She sank again, too far to come back. When she finally came to, who knew what time it was. The heavy curta