Cristiano's hand brushed against hers, Ariana flinched, her body recoiling from the unexpected touch. Shame burned in her throat, a bitter reminder of past punishments. Mustering her courage, she forced herself to meet his gaze, a flicker of defiance battling the fear in her eyes.
Hesitantly, she extended her own hand, the tremor barely concealed by the delicate silk of her glove. Cristiano's grip, surprisingly gentle, sent a jolt through her. Stealing a glance at him as they walked side by side, she saw a flicker of something unreadable in his dark eyes.
The walk to the car was a tense affair, shrouded in an uncomfortable silence. Reaching the vehicle, Cristiano released her hand abruptly, stepping back as if burned. His gaze followed her intently as she slipped into the luxurious backseat, a strange intensity flickering within its depths.
