"Rose?" he called out softly, knocking again. Still, no response.
Growing more concerned, he reached into his pocket for the spare key she'd given him. Unlocking the door, he opened it cautiously, taking a step inside. The moment he did, he felt a sudden force, and before he could fully comprehend what was happening, he was yanked forward and landed on the nearby sofa.
Momentarily dazed, he looked up to find Esme standing above him, her expression an intense mixture of relief, desperation, and something else he couldn't quite place. She didn't wait or offer an explanation; instead, she moved toward him, her hands gripping his shoulders tightly as she leaned down, pressing her lips to his in a fierce, almost wild kiss.
