Marcus led her to the sunken pit of cushions and blankets in the middle of the room. He adjusted a few pillows and gently summoned Sidia to lay down on her back. Once she was comfortable, he hovered above her, his eyes roving and inspecting every inch of her. He was drinking her in, memorizing her features.

“I couldn’t watch you every moment of your life, but I always assumed you had some dalliance or another.” Marcus caressed her cheek as he spoke to her. “It’s hard ...