Aiden's heart was thundering in his chest.

Alina’s lips were soft, and her shaky breathe brushed against his face. Her arms held him tight. But the moment her eyes fluttered shut and her grip loosened, he knew...she had fallen asleep.

Her breathing became calm. Her lips were slightly parted as she lay there under him, looking peaceful… maybe too peaceful after everything that just happened.

He swallowed hard.

Sliding away gently, Aiden stood and watched her for a second; her ...