CHAPTER FORTY – HOUSEWARMING PARTY

But then, John's thumb traced the delicate curve of her cheekbone, his touch achingly gentle. "You look tired, Karina," he murmured, his brow furrowing ever so slightly with concern. "Have you been getting enough rest?" The spell was broken, the moment of heated tension dissipating like a wisp of smoke in the breeze. Karina blinked, her mind whirling as she struggled to regain her equilibrium. "I...yes, I'm fine," she managed, her voice little more than a ragged whisper. "Just...overwhelmed, I suppose." John's expression softened, his fingers trailing along the line of her jaw before falling away entirely. "Of course. This is all quite a change, isn't it?" He stepped back, allowing her to draw a steadying breath, the sudden distance between them lending a semblance of clarity. "Why don't you take some time to get settled in?" he suggested, his tone gentler now, the undercurrent of seduction nowhere to be found. "Familiarize yourself with your new home." Karina could only nod mute