“You didn’t open,” I say. “You didn’t tell anyone why.”
She swallows hard. “I’m fine.”
That word means nothing.
Then the chain slides free.
The door opens wider.
She’s not wearing the hoodie.
No sleeves. Bare arms.
And I see them.
Burns. Old. Faded. Some not faded enough. Lines that don’t belong on skin like hers.
My vision narrows. Pulse slows into something heavy and mean.
She tries to cover up. Jerks her arms back fast.
Too late.
My hands curl into fists. Not to touch her.
To track down whoever put those marks on her.
And make them regret breathing.
Her voice breaks. Soft. Raw. “Please don’t.”
She thinks I’m disgusted.
That lands like a punch to the ribs.
I look her in the eye. Steady. Rough. Honest.
“Who did that to you?”
Chapter 3
Ava
Thebikerdoesn’tleave.
He steps inside like he already belongs, like a decision’s been made and I just haven’t heard the terms yet.
His eyes sweep the room. Quick. Controlled. Window, corners, exit. He takes it all in without moving more than a step. And somehow, even while scanning for danger, he makes it feel likeI’mthe only thing in the room that matters.
Then his eyes lock on me.
“I’m Mason,” he says. “Club calls me Viper.”
The name shouldn't land like a gut punch. But it does.
“Ava.”
He nods once. “I know.”
