Page 34 of Noah

I shrugged, the amusement fading into something more thoughtful. Jackson’s eyes softened slightly, but his posture remained tense.

“I better go,” he said quietly. “I don’t want to cause any more trouble here.”

I frowned, not liking the idea of him leaving. “Don’t.”

Jackson raised an eyebrow, and I smiled faintly. “I’ve been waiting for you all night,” I said. “The least you can do is stay. Besides…” I leaned back, crossing my arms. “You missed my set. The least you can do is stick around and watch the next band with me.”

His lips twitched, like he was fighting a smile. “Didn’t think you’d notice.”

“Of course I noticed,” I said. “So, what’s it gonna be?”

Jackson let out a quiet huff of laughter, shaking his head. “Fine,” he said, finally letting a small smile break through. “I’ll stay.”

We moved to a table closer to the stage as the bar filled up, the crowd swelling with energy as the next band prepared to play.

I was only half-aware of the noise, my focus drifting to Jackson, who settled in beside me.

The table was small, barely leaving enough space for our drinks. As the band struck their first notes, the crowd surged closer, pressing in on all sides.

Jackson shifted behind me, his arms casually bracketing me—one hand resting on the table to my left, the other on my right.

The air around me grew warmer, and I couldn’t ignore the feel of him so close. His arm brushed mine every time he adjusted his stance, sending faint shivers racing down my spine.

His scent, distinct and familiar, enveloped me—cedarwood with that sharp hint of bergamot.

Back then, I’d thought it was some kind of citrus, something fleeting and bright.

Now, it was deeper, richer, grounding in a way that made my pulse skip. Even with the press of bodies around us, his scent cut through, anchoring me.

I tried to focus on the band, but it was impossible. Jackson shifted again, his arm edging closer until I could feel the heat of him just inches away.

The faintest movement brought my back flush against his chest, and I swore I could feel the steady beat of his heart.

Time blurred. The crowd seemed to grow louder, but everything around us narrowed to just him—his warmth, his nearness, the way his breath ghosted over my skin when he leaned in, closer than before.

Slowly, he lowered his head until it rested on my shoulder. His hair brushed my cheek.

I tilted my head slightly, exposing my neck, an invitation to explore further. Jackson didn’t hesitate.

His nose brushed against my neck, and I felt the faintest inhale as he drew in my scent. His breath was warm against me, like a slow burn spreading beneath my skin.

My mind buzzed with the rush of the moment, but a quiet doubt lingered. Jackson’s steady presence slowly chased it away.

I didn’t need to define what this was—right now, I just let myself feel it.

Chapter 10

Jackson

The dining hallwas quieter than usual as I sat with my brother Beck and Noah. Beck told me not to worry about Hudson—our other brother, Mason, was keeping an eye on him.

Lunch was simple—grilled chicken, some greens, and bread—but the company made it better. Noah was relaxed as we chatted about nothing in particular.

I could’ve stayed in that moment forever, savoring the easy banter and the warmth that settled in my chest every time Noah smiled.

Beck leaned back in his chair, a rare grin on his face. “Feels good to have a meal without any drama for once.”

I nodded, my eyes flicking to Noah, who was picking at his food. He caught my gaze, smiled. That smile immediately made my heart race.

---