Bella pushed Alan away with a sudden burst of anger, her breath shaky from the scare he had given her. "What is wrong with you?" she demanded, her voice trembling but firm. "I got so scared. I thought someone dangerous pulled me in. I am going outside." She turned toward the door, reaching for the handle.
But Alan moved too fast.
His arms wrapped around her from behind, stopping her. "Wait, Bella… do not go," he whispered desperately.
Bella stiffened instantly. The closeness felt wrong, uncomfortable, and her skin crawled at the unwanted touch. She shoved his arms off her quickly, taking two steps back as her eyes flashed.
"Alan, do not touch me. I do not like it," she said, her voice low but sharp. "What is wrong with you? Why are you acting like this?"
Alan swallowed hard, staring at her with a mix of fear and longing. "Bella… I just wanted to tell you something," he said, his voice shaking.
"What?" Bella asked, keeping her distance.
