o. Harsh fluorescent lights buzzed overhead, casting an unflattering pallor over his already haggard appearance

n intensity that made him want to squirm. But years of acting had taught him

clipped and professional, "I'm going to ask you

ith charm for the cameras, were now dull with exhaustion and fear. At just 30 years old, the stress of the situation had etched deep wri

Which isn't much. I was at the charity gala, I had too much to drink, and then... not

convenient, don't you think? A famous actor,

ing. "You think I enjoy sitting here, accused of something I can't eve

he hospital with severe injuries. She's identified you as her attacker. We have physical e

in his corner. Normally, this would be when Kimberly swooped in, all sass an

wasn't here. The thought hit Edwin like a physical

g at straws. "Kim- Kenneth White. He's my

eyes's face. "Mr. White is currently in the hospital. He was

onstant support, was out of reach when he needed him most. He felt tea

nager?" Edwin asked, hating

bly tailored suit strode in, radiating authority. "This interview is over," he

relief washing over him a

aightened, clearly a

legal representative," he replied smoothly. "

ar-" the detective began

thout proper representation. We're leaving now. You

ed against the harsh glare of camera flashes. A sea of reporters ha

you assault

he end of y

a think about th

through Edwin. Laura. In the chaos of the past few hours

uttering under his breath, "Don't say a w

aiting car when Edwin collided with

deep voice said, strong

y eyes and golden hair that seemed to catch the sunlight. It took Edwin a moment to place him:

e said, then glanced at the frenzied media circus. Understandi

actor and the press, using his considerable bulk as a shield. "This

and desperation, made a split-second decision. "I'll call y

heir wake, Edwin let out a shaky breath. "Thank you," he said, slumping

d easy charm. "Let's just say I know a thing or

ld be swarming his place by now. He couldn't go to any friends or family without d

ght a fresh wave of despair. Kimberly would know what to do. He always knew how to handle Edwin's cr

ou what. I've got a place up the coast. Private, secluded. W

man. But the events of the past 24 hours had lef

uietly. "That woul

ind them. His phone buzzed incessantly in his pocket – no doubt a barrage of missed calls and messages

sed on the road. Strong jaw, straight nose, those intense gray eyes focused

hit Edwin like a tidal wave. His eyelids grew heavy, and despit

a silent apology to Kimberly. I'm sorry I'm not there fo

unexpected passenger. The usually polished actor looked vulnerable

chest. Compassion for a fellow celebrity in crisis. Curiosity about what had really

oth their lives were about to change in wa