100
~Bella's POV
My heart pounded against my ribs, and I wasn't sure if it was the anticipation or the way his gaze traced every inch of my face, memorizing me.
"You're staring," I whispered, a feeble attempt to break the silence.
"You look beautiful," he murmured, his voice deep and raw, sending a warmth spiraling through me.
My cheeks flushed. I was sure of it. I could feel the heat creep up my neck. Alex wasn't one for compliments, and when he gave them, they always felt different—like they carried more weight than they should.
He took a step closer, closing the small gap between us, and I felt my breath hitch. His scent wrapped around me, something woodsy and intoxicatingly familiar. My fingers curled into the hem of my shirt, grounding myself as the world around us seemed to slow.
"Bella," he said softly, reaching out to tuck a strand of my hair behind my ear. His touch was featherlight but sent shockwaves through my entire body.
