"That comment you made at dinner," Axel said in a low and intense voice. "About me being gentler than people realise. Did you really mean it?"
His dark eyes searched mine, and I felt pinned to the spot just by his gaze. His hands were firm on my shoulders, not rough, but strong enough that I couldn't move even if I wanted to.
My heart hammered so violently in my chest that I was sure he could hear it.
"I…" My voice cracked. I swallowed hard, trying to gather my courage. "Yes. I meant it."
The words lingered in the air, creating a heavy and intimate moment that revealed more about my inner thoughts than I intended to share tonight.
Axel's expression didn't shift, but something shone in his eyes. His thumbs brushed lightly against my shoulders, sending an unexpected shiver through me.
"Why did you say that?" His voice was quiet and low, like he was testing me.
I took a shaky breath. "Because it's true."
