He froze. The rhythm stilled, the air between them shifting in an instant. His grip loosened, and the fire in his eyes flickered into something else , concern. Wait… did Jacob and she never-?

His thumb brushed her cheek as if she might shatter under his touch. “Violet…” His voice was low, hesitant. “Why didn’t you tell me earlier?”

Every movement slowed. The urgency that had been driving him moments ago melted into deliberate care. “Do you want me to stop?” he asked ...