Chapter 236: The Stage of Tension

Zande’s beauty was mesmerizing, enough to steal Jacob’s breath away. He watched her from his position, captivated by the effortless grace with which she moved. Each step she took was fluid and elegant, her hips swaying in perfect rhythm with the music. Her long, silken hair cascaded down her back, brushing against her slender form and accentuating her curves. The sight of her, poised and radiant, made him want to whisk her away to a secluded place far from danger, away from the eyes of others. His desire to protect her, to keep her safe, was overwhelming. He wanted nothing more than to spend eternity listening to her voice, basking in her smile, and watching as she lit up every room she entered. Even as Zande laughed softly into the microphone, seemingly lost in her connection with the crowd, Jacob felt a familiar warmth—her fingertips brushing against the nape of his neck. The sensation sent a rush of heat through him, igniting a fire in his core and causing his muscles to tense. Her