Malcolm's gaze landed on me, and for a moment, it felt like the world tipped sideways. The noise of the café faded into nothingness, the distant hum of conversations and clattering dishes swallowed by the ache in my chest, which flared sharp and unrelenting. His eyes held me captive, like they were unraveling the very fabric of who I was, and I couldn't look away.
He started walking toward me slowly, like he wasn't sure he'd be welcome. Each step was measured yet tentative, as though he were testing the waters of my already fragile composure. My mind raced, panic crawling up my throat as I realized what was happening. I couldn't talk to him here — not with Liam already suspicious about his visit yesterday. Gosh, what the hell is wrong with Malcolm?
