Olívia’s words still seemed to linger in the air.

— Do you really think I’m going to accept this situation, Liam?

Liam stared at her for a second that felt far longer than it was. His hand remained firm around her arm—warm, unyielding—as if trying to anchor her there by force. His jaw was locked, the muscle ticking slightly, betraying control pushed to its limit.

Her gaze dropped to his hand gripping her arm, then lifted back to his face. Liam spoke, his voice low, firm, leaving no room for arg