His kiss wasn't careful.

It was desperate, like a man drowning, finding air in her.

When he finally pulled back, his chest heaved. His gaze darted to her face, then down - and something about her scent made him freeze. His pupils dilated.

"There's something wrong somewhere," he muttered, stepping back, shaking his head like a wolf trying to break free of a spell.

Elowyn could barely breathe. "Baron..."

He turned toward her again, eyes flashing. "What are you doing ...