Adrienne's body stiffened, her mind racing as Alexander's lips pressed against hers. She didn't respond—couldn't. Her thoughts were a whirlwind of panic, confusion, and dread. She had prepared herself for suspicion, for confrontation, even for threats. But this? This was a curveball she hadn't anticipated.
She pulled back sharply, her hand pressing against his chest with more force than she intended. "Alexander," she said, her voice low but firm, "What is wrong with you?"
Alexander's eyes narrowed slightly, but his smile didn't waver. "What's wrong with me?" he asked, his tone deceptively soft. "You've been distant lately. I thought maybe this would help us connect."
Adrienne stepped back, putting space between them. "I'm just tired. It's been a long day," she said, trying to keep her voice steady. "And I came here as soon as I got your message... it was quite urgent, I was worried."
