Chapter 45

As King or Corpse

Storm-Staria POV

Azanlin’s fingers traced lazy patterns across my back as we lay tangled in the silk sheets of his massive chamber. He was still inside me, his breathing slowing, but his eyes filled with thoughts I couldn’t read yet.

“You know,” he said, his voice low, “I feel different when I’m with you. Like I’m safe. Like I can finally let my guard down.”

I smiled weakly and turned to face him, brushing my fingers against his chest. This was ...