"I just met him today," she whispered nervously.

"Lies!"

Nathaniel's voice was cold, his expression icy as he confronted her, his movements unyielding.

Celeste struggled to find space to breathe, turning her head to catch a glimpse of his tense jawline, a mix of restraint and frustration evident on his face.

She reached out, fingers barely grasping his sturdy arm marked with veins that stood out more prominently as the intensity grew.

"Be gentle."

She ...