As they made their way back to the Villa, Riley couldn’t shake the nagging sense of dread that had settled in the pit of her stomach. River remained quiet beside her, his arm firmly around her waist, but his earlier playfulness was gone. The change in his demeanor only heightened her concern.

When they finally reached their room, River ushered her inside. He closed it behind them with a quiet click and turned to face her, his expression unreadable.

“River, please,” Riley urged softly. ...