Isla’s POV
“Your hands are freezing,” he said softly, thumb stroking my knuckles as we walked toward the car.
“I like it,” I said, smirking. “It’s a good excuse to hold yours.”
He chuckled, low and throaty, and my heart did that ridiculous fluttering thing again. “I was hoping you’d say that.”
We climbed into the back of the Escalade, and he gestured for me to sit beside him. I did, but not before stealing a glance at him. He looked so… calm. Controlled, even. Daddy energy radiating from him in subtle waves, but his hand stayed on mine the entire ride, grounding me, making me feel like no one else in the world existed right now.
“You’re quiet,” he said finally, eyes forward, but his thumb never stopping its motion.
“I’m… processing,” I admitted. “Tonight. You. Everything.”
He smile
