The moment his lips lowered toward hers, instinct took over.
Raya didn't think nor does she hesitate.
Pah
Her palm connected with his cheek in a sharp, echoing crack that cut through the quiet hallway like a gunshot.
Rowland staggered back half a step, his head snapping to the side. The sound lingered in the air, loud and unforgiving.
"Are you crazy?" Raya snapped, her chest heaving.
Her hand trembled slightly, not from fear, but from rage.
Rowland slowly lifted his hand to his cheek, rubbing the reddening skin. His expression shifted from rage to shock.
Like he just realized the gravity of what he was about to do.
"I'm sorry," he said, his voice low and steady, sincerity etched in every line of his face. His eyes searched hers, pleading silently for understanding. "I didn't mean to..."
"Save it," Raya cut in coldly. " And get away from me."
He studied her for a moment, eyes narrowing as if reassessing something he thought he already understood.
