Chapter 40

Ruby’s POV

Slowly, he lifted his hands to rest just above my waist. As if he was testing my response to his touch. The warmth of his hands sent a jolt of electricity through me. I wanted to turn away, to escape the pull of the moment, but my feet felt anchored to the ground, held in place by an invisible force.

“I’m sorry about last night, about what Asia said,” he said softly.

“Well, it’s true. You and Zylon have always revolted me,” I murmured, trying to take a step back from him. His grip tightened slightly.

Hayes let out a slow breath, regret crossed his eyes . “Everything we did and said was just a performance, a misguided attempt to make you hate us.” I opened my mouth, the questions swirling in my mind, but he pressed on before I could voice them. “Never in my life did I see you as anything less than beautiful. Ruby, you’ve always been captivating, sharp-witted. You never hesitated to fire back at anyone who dared to undermine you.” He chuckled