Isobel’s brows drew together as James walked to the second door in the room, the one that led to the dining room, and locked that door as well. He turned back around to face her and simply looked at her, his gaze heavy against her skin. Isobel’s pulse quickened. They were alone and he had locked the doors— whatever his intentions were, she didn’t think they were innocent.
“I hate that I had to stand by quietly while they threatened you,” James said into the silence.
“Having you beside me is all that I needed,” Isobel replied quietly.
“I hate that there are so many unspoken rules that we have to follow,” he sighed.
Isobel swallowed. “I do too, but we’re not following the rules right now,” she pointed out as she glanced at the first door that he had locked.
“If anyone knocks or tri
