Chapter 100

Maya’s POV

He didn’t answer me with words. Instead, the anger that had flared so sharply in his eyes just moments ago seemed to soften, fading away like smoke as a gentler expression took its place. Before I could fully process the change in him, he surprised me by bending down, gathering me into his arms. Warmth radiated from his body as he carried me effortlessly toward the bed. My pulse quickened, heart pounding not with fear now but with anticipation. He laid me down on the smooth linens, then climbed up, straddling me so that his legs settled on either side of my hips.

“Say it again,” he murmured, voice low and husky, the single command carrying both urgency and tenderness. His hand came up to brush against my cheek, fingertips feather-light yet sending an electric thrill dancing across my skin.

“I love you, Elias,” I breathed, meeting his d