Isabella's heart jumped at that single word.
She raised her head.
Victor's gaze landed on her, and for the first time in this conversation, it wasn't purely cold. It was darker, heavier, carrying a faint heat beneath it.
"If you think it's inconvenient to live in Sun Manor," he said slowly, "I can consider moving you to a place closer to the hospital."
Her eyes widened, a flicker of relief flashing through her chest.
But before she could relax, Victor's tone dropped again, dangerously soft.
"But…"
Isabella's fingers clenched.
"But what?" she asked, unable to stop herself.
At some point, Victor had leaned closer.
Too close.
Close enough that she could feel the warmth of his breath brush against her skin.
Close enough that her heartbeat began to pound in her ears.
His eyes narrowed slightly, and the faintest curve appeared on his lips, as if he had finally found the perfect way to trap her.
"I have a condition," he said quietly.
Isabella's throat went dry.
