Chapter 355. Ready?

Apphia’s POV

Nicholas is still standing there.

He should have already turned away, already begun his walk toward the waiting car, his mind shifting to work, responsibilities, and the weight of being Alpha. But instead, he remains rooted in place, his tall figure framed by the early morning light filtering through the garden. His gaze is fixed on me with an intensity that makes my breath hitch.

Every part of me shivers.

It has nothing to do with the crisp air brushing against my skin or the lingering coolness of the stone beneath my feet. My body is warm—too warm. The heat pools low in my stomach, spreads through my chest, hums in my veins. He does this to me effortlessly. Nicholas makes me feel seen, exposed, alive. He makes my heart flutter like it doesn’t quite know how to keep a steady rhythm anymore.