Chapter 23. I Don’t Want Him to Hurt You

Calista’s POV

He drew closer to me, his voice a whisper that sent shivers down my spine. “Not just that,” he murmured, his proximity and piercing gaze making it difficult for me to avoid his eyes. I felt vulnerable under his scrutiny, sensing that his perfect eyes could easily unravel any falsehood I might utter.

“Yes,” I replied after a deep breath, my voice slightly shaky. “He thinks I’m the best muse for his upcoming projects, and I needed the job… I trusted him enough for that,” I explained, nervously biting the inside of my cheek as I met his gaze. Zane sighed heavily, his expression unreadable as he continued to study me.

“You’re modeling for him at this time,” he observed, his tone laced with concern. “Aren’t you tired?” Zane inquired, his eyes scanning me closely, clearly worried about my well-being after everything that had transpired.

“No,” I denied with a shake of my head. “What about you? You should be the one resting, Zane. You’re injured,