97. THE WANTING HEAT

HOLLY'S POV. I straightened my spine and forced a neutral expression onto my face as I turned my attention to my grandmother. Inside, a storm I refused to let out. “Morning,” I said, my voice steady but distant, devoid of warmth. Her eyes lit up, the corners crinkling with affection, her smile widening as if she hadn’t noticed the coldness in my tone. “Good morning, sweetheart! Look who I decided to help in the kitchen this morning!” I tensed as Zeke came into view, his broad frame leaning against the counter. His gaze locked onto mine, intense and unreadable. It was as though he was trying to decipher something, searching my face for a clue. His lips parted slightly like he wanted to speak, his brow furrowing in hesitation. I couldn’t let him. “Why are you here this morning?” I said quickly, cutting him off before he could get a word out. My words came out harsh, but I didn’t care. He straightened, his expression flickering from surprise to concern. “I came to check on t