Twenty Seven

As Isabella entered the lift, she found it hard to shake off Charles's insistent gaze. It almost seemed like it was suggesting something.

"Hi," she simply said as she found her stance beside his tall figure.

"Isabella," he returned, his voice a bit thicker.

The entire space wore awkwardness as she had no idea what to say next. And that was funny, she was certain she had many questions in her head before she pressed the elevator's button.

So, her eyes didn't wander, they stayed glued on her blurred image ahead.

Charles cleared his throat, chasing the silence away. Then, instantly, his arm circled her waist and he drew her closer to his side before she could react.

Startled, she looked up at him and he greeted her with a smirk that stirred something within her. As his hand dug even more into her side in a gentle manner, she asked, her voice trying to hide her slight amusemen