Chapter 53

Lara

We exit the bar, the noise of laughter and clinking glasses slowly replaced by the quiet hum of the city nightlife. The air is cool against my skin, but I can still feel the heat from Ashton’s hand on my lower back, guiding me towards the sleek black limousine parked on the curb. The street lights cast an eerie glow on everything, turning ordinary things into shadows and silhouettes. I can see our reflection in the car’s tinted windows as we move closer.

The driver opens the door for us with a polite nod. Ashton climbs in first, then reaches out his hand to help me inside.

I don’t take it.

I step into the limousine without his assistance, putting some distance between Ashton and myself. I need to keep things under control; I can’t let him think he has won me over completely.

Ashton gives me an amused look as he stretches out his long legs, arms resting casually on the backrest. His glinting eyes never leave mine as he leans back in his seat.

“Feeling nervous?” He teases lightly,