Splintered

The golden-eyed man remained unbothered by her accusations. "I wasn't following you, if that's what you're implying. I have more important things to do," he said nonchalantly, his gaze steady and unyielding.

"Then why are you here?" she challenged, her voice rising. "And what do you mean I'll listen to you? You're not my dad!"

A low chuckle escaped his lips, sending a shiver down her spine. "Oh, love," he said, his tone dark and teasing. "When you realize who I am to you, you won't question me."

His cryptic words left her dumbfounded. "What do you mean? Can you, for once, explain what's happening? I moved to Seattle for a fresh start, to build a life, to find a job, maybe even love. That's it!" she exclaimed, her frustration bubbling over.

His expression darkened the moment she mentioned love. His golden eyes flickered, turning a shade darker as his hair seemed to lift slightly, as if charged with energy.