34

ADELINE

Reid doesn’t stop moving, doesn’t loosen his grip, doesn’t even look back. He just pulls me through the chaos like he’s the only thing keeping me grounded. And maybe he is. The cameras flash, reporters shout, but all I can focus on is the warmth of his hand wrapped around mine.

We break through the crowd, and only then does he slow down. But his grip? Still firm. Like he’s afraid if he let