Ellie's POV
I blinked at him, not expecting the question. “No… I—uh—accidentally knocked this over.” I stepped away from the desk so he could see the wolf statue lying on its side. A bit of dust clung to its edges.
“I’m fine,” I added quickly, trying to smile even though my heart was still beating fast. “I just came here to give you the report you asked for.”
He was standing too close, close enough that I could smell the faint scent of his cologne—woody, sharp, and heavy. It made me feel uneasy, like I needed more space. My hands fidgeted with the hem of my sleeve. I decided it was best to leave before the air between us grew heavier.
I should get going.
“Goodbye, John,” I said, already taking a step toward the door.
But before I could go, his hand reached out and wrapped around min
