Page 135 of Dark Awakening

Rhyland bows his head in what I can only interpret as a relief. Without thinking, I jump up and wrap my arms around them both.

Tears well up in my eyes as I choke out, “I was so worried.”

Despite our short time together, these men have already become more than acquaintances; they are now friends.

Adrian releases me from his embrace and steps back. “I think it’s time we get going,” he says with a slight nod in agreement.

I can feel Rhyland come up behind me, his warmth radiating against me as he wraps an arm around my waist. His embrace is almost too tight to bear, and he trembles. He pulls back ever so slightly and looks into my eyes with such intensity that I think he's searching for something he has lost.

His gaze softens, and his lips tremble. “I thought I almost lost you.” His voice is a whisper, but it carries so much weight in those few words.

I kiss him fiercely before reciting his words, “Remember, nothing in this world or any other can keep us apart.”

Amid the crumbling of the ancient city, I grasp the crown tightly in my hands. A soft light illuminates the surrounding jungle, and a gentle breeze caresses our faces as we step away from the ruins.

I focus my mind on opening a portal to Rhyland's hotel room. "Hang on," I say. He gives me a puzzled look.

Returning to the hotel feels dangerously unwise after the attack and the failed rune security. "Maybe we should go to my place instead, just for now until we figure out our next move?" I suggest.

Adrian and Erik readily agree. Rhyland hesitates, then nods. "It'll work for the time being." His tone makes me wonder, but we have no other options now. At least we'll be safe there from Azrael and his ilk.

I visualize my apartment, and a shimmering doorway appears, revealing the familiar sight of my living room couch. A rush of comfort washes over me at the mundane sight I hadn't realized how much I missed.

Before entering, I give the brothers a wry smile. "Gentlemen, please come in."

We step through as one, and my apartment solidifies around us—the portal pops out of existence with an air of heavy finality. I let out a deep exhale, the comforting familiarity almost overwhelming.

"We made it safe and sound," I proclaim, tension draining from my sore muscles. I caress the crown in my hands. "Now, to put this somewhere secure."

Adrian and Erik immediately collapse onto the couch like marionettes with cut strings, eyes almost closed, movements sluggish and awkward. Of course, it's past their usual resting time.

In my room, I gently place the crown atop the dresser, admiring its gleaming gold, the central jewel scattering prismatic rainbows under the lamplight. The intricate metalwork is astonishing as if crafted only yesterday rather than ages ago. I'm in awe of this ancient relic.

Eagerly, I head for the shower, craving the cleansing heat on my battered body—noticing that I still need to replace my bathroom door, Rhyland obliterated.

Shaking my head, I turn the water on as hot as I can stand it and let it wash away the dirt and soothe my aching muscles. The mundane ritual grounds me, providing comforting normalcy after the insanity of this day.

For now, we're safe—temporarily.

Rhyland

75

Ieagerly follow Dani into her room, my heart pounding with anticipation. When I see her in the shower, I quickly join her.

After a quick shower, she stands in front of the mirror. I move up close behind her and encircle her with my arms as we gaze into each other’s eyes. Our bareness is on full display, and I’m struck by pride and adoration.

My throat tightens as I contemplate her utter fearlessness. Her devotedness and loyalty to me, despite the dangers that we have been put through. She almost slipped away from me multiple times today, yet my love for her grows even more potent with each near-miss. The intensity of my need for her is palpable, a flame within me that will never be extinguished.

With a warmth radiating from my chest, I whisper in her ear, “I’m so proud of you.” She gazes at me through the mirror with eyes that sparkle like liquid caramel.

She smiles at me. “None of it would have been possible without you and your brothers,” she quips back, fire blazing in every word.

I can’t believe that we've completed such an arduous task. Dani had taken the initiative, boldly facing every obstacle with courage and presence of mind that entranced me. I immediately feel the intensity of my desire for her.

Our eyes lock in the mirror again, and I’m held captive by her beauty. Her eyes smolder with heat and simmering desire that wells up like molten lava overflowing from a volcano. I can almost taste her need on my tongue like a sweet poison. Our hearts beat in tandem, sharing the same wavelength of passion and understanding.

We both know what we want without asking.

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