~HAZEL~

Ashton's jaw flexes. He stares at the dripping dress like it has personally offended him. I can't look at his face; I'm afraid of what I'll see there.

Anger. Reluctance. Or worse—duty. A duty to keep me safe. He has already sacrificed enough to protect me. I could not ask for more from him.

I hug my arms over my chest, aware of how very naked I am, how the forest air kisses places it has no business kissing while he's staring at the ground, contemplating listening to the ...