Selina felt a sudden lump in her throat. She didn't understand why things were unfolding this way. Her hands clenched nervously on her thigh as she drew a sharp, steadying breath.
Rowan stepped back, sensing no introduction was necessary.
"Zane, it's been a while," Rowan greeted casually.
Zane arched a brow, glancing between Selina and Rowan. "Seems so. I wasn't informed of your return firsthand."
Selina's breath hitched. She looked at them, puzzled by their easy familiarity. Friends? Perhaps. Something more?
"What else can I do when I'm missing my dearest friend?" Rowan replied, placing a hand lightly on Selina's shoulder in a gesture that seemed almost intimate. "I'm more concerned about her than you can imagine."
The protective touch sparked something irritating in Zane. He swallowed it down, keeping his expression composed.
