_Chapter 7: Boundaries_
Maya's heart raced as Chase's lips brushed against hers, sending shivers down her spine. But as quickly as the kiss began, she pulled away, her hands on his chest.
"Chase, I'm not ready," she said, her voice barely above a whisper. "I appreciate everything you've done for me, but I need time to process everything. My parents, the kidnapping, all of it... it's too much."
Chase's eyes searched hers, his face inches from hers. For a moment, Maya thought he would press her further, but then he nodded, his expression softening.
"I understand," he said, stepping back. "I didn't mean to push you. You're right, you need time. I just... I feel a connection with you, Maya. A strong one."
Maya felt a mix of relief and guilt. She was attracted to Chase, but her feelings were tangled in a web of fear, gratitude, and uncertainty.
As they stood there, the tension between them palpable, Maya realized that she needed to set boundaries. "Chase, I need some space," she said firmly. "Can I have some time alone? Maybe a few days?"
Chase nodded, his eyes never leaving hers. "Of course, Maya. You can have all the time you need. I'll give you space, but know this... I'll be here, waiting for you. When you're ready, I'll be here."
And with that, he turned and disappeared into the night, leaving Maya to wonder what she had just gotten herself into.
Maya took a deep breath, feeling a sense of determination wash over her. She would use this time to clear her head, to figure out her feelings and her next move. But as she turned to go back inside, she couldn't shake the feeling that Chase's words were more than just a promise... they were a warning.