The first rays of dawn spilled across the bed like soft gold. Warmth filtered through the sheer curtains, brushing against my skin. I woke slowly, blinking into the light, the memory of last night wrapping itself around me like a second skin.
Kieran was still beside me, one arm draped loosely over my waist, his breath steady against my shoulder. For once, there was peace in his face. The warrior lines had eased, and he looked younger, almost boyish, like the world hadn't carved its weight into his bones yet.
I turned my head slightly, watching him sleep. My hand hovered above his chest, just barely brushing the curve of his collarbone.
And then I stilled.
Because I felt it again—that guilt, like a shadow slithering under my ribs.
Lucas.
