ARIA'S POV
"Then I dare you to…" I whispered, my eyes glinting with mischief as I let the challenge linger in the air between us.
Magnus arched an eyebrow, crossing his arms in mock defiance. "To what? Huh?" His voice was low, teasing, and sent a thrill through me. But as I held his gaze, I found myself instinctively backing up until I felt the edge of a seat behind me. I sank into it, feeling my cheeks warm as his towering figure loomed over me, close enough that I could feel the warmth of his body.
His scent surrounded me, earthy and rich, a mix of cedarwood and something undeniably him. My words vanished, replaced by the thumping of my heart echoing in my ears. I had a quick thought—his grandmother was still around, right? She’d only stepped into the other room for a moment. I didn’t even get a chance to introduce myself to her properly, yet here I was, lost in Magnus’ intense gaze.
He leaned in a fraction closer, a playful smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. I swallowed hard, caught up in his presence, but before I could say anything, a sharp rap sounded from behind him, followed by his grandmother’s voice.
"Magnus Draven! What do you think you’re doing?" The gentle thud of her walking stick connected with his back, and he straightened up immediately, a sheepish expression crossing his face.
I couldn’t resist—I put on the most pitiful look I could muster, letting out a small, pretend whimper. "Grandma, he was bullying me," I said, putting on my best hurt expression, which earned a chuckle from her and an annoyed glance from Magnus.
"Oh, is that so?" she said, raising an eyebrow at her grandson. "Picking on the girl already? Magnus, you’d better be a gentleman, or I’ll tan your hide!"