Valen slowly stirred awake, his body was heavy with exhaustion. His arm instinctively reached out, searching for the warmth beside him. But all he felt was the coolness of the sheets. His brows furrowed, memories of last night came crashing on him, and his eyes snapped open.

He turned but found only Derek, sprawled on his stomach, his bare back exposed, his breathing deep and steady. But aside from him, Ella was gone. Panic surged in his chest as he abruptly stood up.

The incense, having ...