"He's just a child—don't mind him," Anna said softly, trying to excuse Gabriel's behavior after he walked away.
But William didn't acknowledge her attempt. Instead, without warning, he took hold of her waist and lifted her effortlessly onto his lap, settling her against his hips. Their upper bodies were so close now, Anna could feel the warmth radiating from his skin, a heat that seemed to seep into her own.
"Will, I—"
"It's fine," William cut in, gently tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. His fingertips grazed her flushed cheek, and his gaze lingered. "I heard what I needed when you answered my question. And I know... that you don't care for men anymore."
Anna flinched, her pulse quickening as echoes of her conversation with Gabriel resurfaced—sharp, fresh, and unresolved.
