And what exactly did you say to her?”


    Domenic shed a yful grin and said, “I informed her that my girlfriend is in good hands and there’s no need for worry.


    ”


    Lindsey was momentarily at a loss for words.


    How could he say something so prone to misinterpretation?


    Exhaling, Lindsey gave Domenic a look that was a mix of irritation and resignation.


    “It’s gettingte.


    You should head back and get some rest too.


    ”


    Domenic responded without a word, gently scooping her up in a smooth motion to make space, then slid into the bed next to Lindsey.


    “You…”Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    “I didn’t intend to leave tonight anyway.


    Nights can be chilly, and it’s easy to get cold sleeping alone.


    I’m here to keep you warm.


    ”


    The room was luxuriously furnished, and the bed was exceptionallyrge, more than adequate for two.


    It was just a bit awkward for the situation.


    Lindsey’s cheeks flushed a deep red, but Domenic smoothly slipped his arm around her, gently cradling her neck and drawing her close to him.


    “Oh my!” Lindsey couldn’t help but let out a startled cry.


    “Don’t scream.


    We wouldn’t want someone to hear and get the wrong idea,” Domenic said with a sly grin, “It’s much cozier to sleep close together.


    ”


    Resting against his chest, Lindsey felt the heating through his shirt, and she found herself rxing.


    His presence always enveloped her in a feeling of safety andfort.


    “Linds.


    ” Domenic’s deep, resonant voice broke the silence above her.


    “Hmm?” Lindsey looked up, her eyes meeting his striking throat.


    “I’ve been meaning to share something about my family with you, but I wasn’t sure how to start,” Domenic said, tightening his hold on her arm, and added, “Both my parents are no Longer with us…”


    Lindsey’s body stiffened momentarily at his words.


    Domenic continued with a gentle tone, “When I was ten years old, my parents got into a car ident.


    My mom got stuck in the car, and my dad managed to get out.


    But then the car caught fire.


    To save my mom, my dad went back into the fire.


    Later, people imed my dad sacrificed himself for love.


    They said he and my mom were deeply in love.


    Due to all this, my grandfather fell seriously ill.


    While he was sick, some of my uncles locked me in a cer and left me without food for ten days.


    I even missed their funerals.


    ”


    Lindsey’s eyshes quivered as she hugged Domenic while he narrated the story tly.


    She was shocked and troubled.


    Simply listening to the ount left her with a sense of stifling despair.


    At the tender age of ten, how did Domenic endure such a traumatic experience? How did he manage to survive?


    Lindsey’s tremulous voice finally broke the silence, “During those ten days…”


    “I survived by eating mud, scraping bits off the walls, and drinking water seeping through the cracks.


    The cer was damp, and the days were gloomy and rainy.


    Perhaps, by some twist of fate, I still survived.


    ”