My blood ran cold as I froze in place, my voice barely a whisper:

"Mathew, you've crossed the line."


He stopped advancing, a heavy sigh escaping his lips.

I tried to push him away, but he caught my wrist, pressing it against his chest.

"Crystal," Mathew's voice rasped as he held my hand firmly, his other hand brushing tears from my cheek, "Four years apart, and this is all you have to say?"


Fresh tears spilled down my face, dampening his fingers.

Four years since I'd last seen Mathew.


And now we meet again like this—in ruins.

I glanced down at the photos scattered across the floor, my boyfriend's once-familiar face now a stranger's.

My glance downward triggered something in him. Mathew grabbed my chin and tilted it up, his dark eyes boring into mine.

"Still can't let him go, can you?" His voice dripped with danger.

Words failed me. I remained silent.

His grip tightened, fingers digging into my skin.

A phone rang, slicing through the tension.

Mathew loosened his grip but kept me cornered.

I pulled out my phone—my foster mother calling.

"Have you eaten yet, honey?" Mom's voice came through rapid-fire. "Listen, Mathew's coming back tomorrow. Your dad and I can't get away, so you'll need to pick him up at the airport at two. Don't forget."

Two o'clock? Airport? Pick up Mathew?

I looked up at Mathew, confusion written across my face.

A ghost of a smile played at his lips.

He took my phone. "Mom, I'm already back. I'm with sis right now."

He emphasized "sis," his eyes never leaving mine—a pointed response to my earlier words.

Silence fell on the other end of the line.

"Mom?" I grabbed the phone back.

Her voice finally returned, strained. "Good that you're back... Why don't you two come home for dinner tomorrow night?"

"Okay—"

I started to respond, but she'd already hung up.

Something was off about her reaction.

I glanced at Mathew. He merely shrugged, as if he'd expected this.

He didn't budge, keeping me trapped, even leaning in closer.

Reality crashed back. Ivan would be home from his business trip tonight. I pushed against Mathew's chest.

Before I could move him, keys jingled in the lock.

Panic surged through me. I shoved him hard.

"Crystal, I'm back—"