Holding Annabell’s hand Carson's touch was firm and comforting. They made their way to the mansion door by walking up the cobblestone path. His hand exuded warmth despite the cool air.
Without a sound, the enormous doors opened. He moved aside to let her in first. The marble floors in the grand foyer shone in the soft light from the chandeliers which were dimly lit.
Their footsteps were the only sound to break the dense silence. Without letting go of her hand, he guided her through the foyer.
She gave him a quick glance following the lines of weariness on his face. She had never seen him appear older, different and somehow more genuine before.
An unguarded vulnerability had taken the place of the carefree exterior. They stopped in the center of the foyer. His intense gaze turned to
