Page 23 of Primal Call

And each time he caught sight of Kyral’s broad back or heard the low timbre of his voice, Jasper felt that strange pull get stronger. He bit his lip and looked away from the firelight dancing on Kyral's skin, trying to wrestle his feelings back under control.

This was the first real temptation Jasper had faced since quietly acknowledging his preference for men years ago. He had always buried that part of himself deep, hidden beneath layers of duty and self-sacrifice.

Growing up in a conservative household had taught him early on to suppress any desires that didn't align with his parents' expectations. He remembered the weight of their expectations, the pressure to conform. His father’s stern lectures about duty and honor, his mother’s hopeful smiles whenever she mentioned potential future brides.

He remembered the suffocating fear that gripped him whenever he thought about confessing his true self.

Becoming a medic had been his escape. He had poured all his energy into his studies, dedicating himself to the art of healing. It was a way to channel his emotions, to find purpose in helping others even as he denied himself any chance of personal happiness.

When war broke out, enlisting seemed like the logical next step. It offered an escape from the constant pressure at home, and gave him a chance to make a difference. It had been easier for him to sign up for a one-way trip to the front lines than it was to confess to his parents that he was gay.

His parents were probably missing him now, mourning their son who they believed had died heroically on the battlefield. Jasper swallowed hard against the lump in his throat. It was better this way for them — better for them to remember him as a hero rather than shun him as a disappointment.

But here he was, miles away from everything familiar, grappling with feelings he couldn't ignore. Kyral's presence stirred something in him he had long tried to bury — a longing for connection, for acceptance, for love…

Jasper forced himself to focus on the path ahead, trying to push down the rising tide of emotions. He couldn’t afford distractions now. His survival depended on staying sharp, on finding some way back home.

Yet every glance at Kyral reminded him of what he had suppressed for so long.

Jasper's eyes drifted over to Kyral again, an action that was feeling more and more natural every time. The Borraq's muscular physique was impossible to ignore. Each step showcased the fluid motion of power and grace, his broad shoulders tapering into a narrow waist, the strong lines of his arms flexing as he moved with purpose. His golden skin, slightly shining in the firelight, looked almost inviting.

Jasper felt a pang of something sharp and sweet in his chest.

Suddenly, Kyral turned, catching Jasper's flushed face. Concern flickered in those intense eyes. "Are you overheated?" Kyral's voice carried a hint of genuine worry.

Jasper's heart pounded in his chest, and he fumbled for words. "A-a little! Us humans get overheated easily," he lied hastily, trying to mask his embarrassment with a shaky smile. "It's nothing. Don't worry about it."

Kyral's gaze lingered on him for a moment longer, scrutinizing with an intensity that made Jasper's skin prickle. Then, with a slight nod, Kyral seemed to accept the explanation.

Jasper quickly looked away, pretending to adjust his pack. His fingers trembled as he fiddled with the straps, seeking refuge from the emotions swirling within him and the unbearable intensity of Kyral's gaze.

Just a week ago, he had been content, in a bleak sort of way — ready to die in glory on the front lines if it meant saving others.

Now, everything had changed.

Chapter ten

Kyral led the way up the narrow, rocky path, eyes scanning the horizon for any sign of movement. The shortcut was dangerous, but he couldn't afford to lose any more time. The thought of his old crew getting to the Taothium stash first gnawed at him.

He glanced back at Jasper, who was doing his best to keep up despite the uneven terrain. Zee padded alongside him, her ears perked and alert.

Having Jasper and Zee at his side had become oddly comforting. The human’s quiet presence and practical assistance had woven themselves into Kyral's routine. It was strange; he’d always been a lone wolf, but now he found himself almost enjoying the company. He shook his head, trying to dismiss the thought.

“Careful here,” Kyral said, turning to help Jasper navigate a particularly steep section of the path. His hands found Jasper’s waist, and for a moment, he was acutely aware of the warmth and softness beneath his fingers.

Jasper’s breath hitched as Kyral lifted him up with ease. The sound sent an unexpected rush through Kyral's veins, his body reacting to the close contact in a way that was both exhilarating and troubling. His fingers twitched, wanting to hold on longer than necessary.

He ground his teeth, and released Jasper. This was just temporary confusion — nothing more than a reaction to the human’s pheromones.

That was all.

“Thanks,” Jasper murmured, adjusting his pack and avoiding eye contact.

“Let's keep moving,” Kyral grunted, tearing his gaze away from Jasper's flushed face. He focused on the path ahead, every step an effort to suppress the growing attraction that simmered beneath his composed exterior.

He couldn't afford distractions — not now, with everything he needed within reach…

Kyral’s sharp eyes caught a faint glint hidden among the rocks and foliage. He halted abruptly, holding up a hand to stop Jasper. “Wait,” he growled, his voice low and dangerous.

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