Lyra fluttered her eyes open when Casian suddenly paused, hovering above her with a stunned expression. His emerald gaze searched her face as if he were seeing her for the first time—like something had shifted inside him.
What happened?
The question echoed in her mind, but before she could voice it, he shook his head faintly, as if dispelling a thought too overwhelming to speak aloud.
He had heard her moan—raw, honest, and unguarded. And it undid him.
That sound… it wasn't just desire.
It was trust.
It was Lyra choosing him, even after everything.
Casian looked like he wanted to say something. There was a flicker of hesitation, a war in his eyes between speaking and staying silent. But whatever it was, he set it aside, storing it deep within for another time.
Instead, he leaned in and claimed her lips again—fierce, tender, desperate.
A kiss that said everything he couldn't.
