Maria.
I lifted my eyes to meet his, and for a fleeting, fragile moment, all I could discern in his expression was utter sincerity. The raw emotion reflecting in his gaze was almost persuasive enough to make me believe that he truly meant every single word leaving his lips.
For a split second, my defenses wavered.
However, the instant the bitter memories of everything he had done came flooding back into my mind, that fragile thought withered and died down completely.
He could try to hide behind soft looks now, but the reality remained unchanged: amongst his brothers, he had done far worse.
Drenched and shivering from being wet and soaked to the bone, I instinctively wrapped my hands tightly around myself, desperate for any shred of warmth or protection.
But escape was impossible. Aidan had effectively trapped me where I stood, planting both of his hands on either side of me, blocking off any route of retreat.
