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My fingers curl into his shirt.

His hand tightens slightly at my waist, and the sheer size of him makes my knees weak.

For one glorious moment, I let myself enjoy it.

The warmth.

The strength.

The delicious certainty that he could hold me effortlessly and still choose to be gentle.

Then reality crashes back.

I pull away.

“Wait.”

Vidar releases me immediately.

No argument.

No frustration.

He simply steps back.

“Of course.”

I press my fingers to my lips.

“I’m sorry.”

His brows draw together.

“For what?”

“I just…this is moving really fast.”

He studies me.

“Then we shall move slowly.”

“It’s not that simple.”

“Why?”

“Because I barely know you. Because I just got out of a terrible relationship. Because the last thing I need is to fall for another man who could completely turn my life upside down.”

His expression remains calm.

“Then do not fall.”

I stare at him.

He smiles faintly.

“I shall stand beside you until you’re ready.”

My throat tightens.