Chapter 40: Shuttle service

Liam was in a foul mood, his touch far from gentle. Charlotte found proof of his aggression in several bite marks across her lower back as she examined herself in the mirror – a carnivore's claim etched into her skin. After she readied herself to leave, she found Liam quenching his thirst shirtless, the jagged scratches on his back clearly visible from her point. Drawing closer, the sight of the angry red welts at his throat was enough to make anyone's cheeks flush with a mix of feelings. He had been too fierce, and she, overwhelmed, had only stopped him with the silent language of her own body. Hearing her approach, Liam turned, his gaze icily detached, causing Charlotte to awkwardly halt mid-step. She couldn't decipher his cryptic signals. "Aren't you leaving?" His voice was a cold blade. "Don't harbor any illusions; I'm not your chauffeur." "I know... I'm going," Charlotte muttered, her hands fumbling as she reached for her coat. By the time she returned, Liam had vanished, r