~ Adeline ~

"Well, well, well, a new beauty."

The voice comes from behind me, sultry and languid, like the curve of smoke on a match. My head doesn’t turn right away. The air vibrates, a whiff of leather and mint drifting through it, a hint of arrogance.

I finally look over my shoulder.

Leans on the tree as if it’s his own property. Dark, messy hair, shirt pulled up, grins like that don’t reach his eyes. There’s an air of danger in the position he’s taking, too relaxed for ...