Elyra’s POV

Kale’s hands were on my waist before I could say a word. His grip was firm, like he’d been waiting for an excuse, or a reason to touch me again. Before I could catch my breath, he hoisted me off the ground and carried me straight through the hallway of his room, his stride unhurried but unrelenting.

“Kale—”

“Don’t.” His voice was rough, the command vibrating through my skin, and I felt something purring.

He pushed open ...