Val’s POV

The music swelled around me, low and sultry, almost pulling the words right out of Jax’s lips. His arms around me still felt like an anchor, steadying me in the storm of emotions I’d just spilled out. His voice echoed in my head, that promise — I’ll be with you even after this.

I wanted to cry again, but no, this wasn’t the time. He had managed to soothe my heart into calm waters, his eyes drinking in every trembling part of me like he had sworn to keep me safe.

The ...