Leo gently helped Bella into the back seat of the car, making sure not to jostle her sore foot. Then he got in beside her, closing the door softly behind him. He had already messaged the bodyguard to drive them back, and the man was now seated in the front, starting the engine.
Bella, who usually kept her polite distance, was now clinging tightly to his neck, burying her face near his collarbone as if she was afraid he might vanish.
"Why are you pushing me away?" she whispered, her voice muffled against his skin. Her fingers tightened around him. She nuzzled gently against his neck, warm breath tickling his jawline, like a sleepy little bunny seeking comfort.
Leo tensed.
He could feel the way her soft lips brushed lightly across his collar as she pouted. He cleared his throat. "Because," he said gruffly, "you're basically assaulting me."
