Linford smiled and stretched his arms, taking her in. His breath was hot and minty against her cheek, “It’s a bad habit, Cristelle. You have to trust Cody with his own issues.”

“Let me go,” Cristelle felt her knees getting weak, face as red as a tomato, “I…I need to take a shower right now.”

Linford chuckled softly and withdrew his arms.

Cristelle sprinted towards the bathroom as if a monster were chasing her.

****

They finished breakfast together the following day, sending the ...