Chapter 316

Anna Ross bit her lip.

A wave of heat surged from deep within, threatening to consume her.

The phone rang insistently.

It pierced her consciousness like a needle.

She pushed Adrian Sinclair away abruptly.

Wrapping herself tightly in the blanket, her voice trembled.

"Your phone."

Adrian froze.

Unfaded desire churned in his eyes.

He ran a hand through his hair in frustration.

His well-defined chest rose and fell under the light.

He got out of bed and picked up his clothes.

Anna quickly looked away, her ears burning.

"Speak," he answered, his voice cold and deep.

Chloe Valentine's sobs came through the receiver.

"Adrian... can you come get me?"

Anna's nails dug into her palms.

She held her breath.

Adrian glanced at the figure curled up on the bed.

He deftly buttoned his shirt.

"Get home yourself."

Chloe stared at her distorted reflection in the car window.

Her voice choked with tears.

"Grandpa said you should look after me..."

"We'll be family soon."

Her nails dug into the leather seat.

A flash of anger crossed Adrian's eyes.

Finally, he said was hoarsely,

"Location."

The moment the call ended, he grabbed his coat and headed for the door.

The door slammed shut.

Anna lifted her head from the blankets.

Only cold, empty air remained in the room.

She slowly dressed.

She smoothed the bedsheet.

As if that could erase all traces.

Neon lights flashed outside the taxi window.

She watched the blurry lights.

Her heart felt torn open.

The apartment was terrifyingly empty.

Sophia wasn't home.

Even her breath echoed.

Hot water streamed over her skin.

Yet she felt increasingly cold.

Her phone suddenly vibrated.

That name flashed on the screen.

She took a deep breath and answered.

"Anna..."

The voice was urgent.

"You have to help me this time."