Page 11 of Heatbound Hearts

But when she starts to yawn, I stand up. "How about we all get some rest while you do."

6

BRONWYN

I'm practically dead on my feet. The night's been incredible, but between my frantic escape from the orcs and the non-stop festivities, I'm ready to collapse where I stand.

I trail behind Zyx as we make our way down the hallway, my mind still spinning from everything that's happened. The cozy warmth of his home envelops me like a soothing embrace, a stark contrast to the harsh, unforgiving world I left behind.

While he's showing Kairos and Naia to the spare room, I can't help but gawk at the intricate wooden carvings adorning the walls. It's all so... serene. Peaceful in a way I've never experienced before.

Once it's just the two of us, Zyx turns to face me, his mesmerizing silver eyes catching the soft light. "Bronwyn, my room's this way."

He starts walking, but I remain rooted to the spot, staring at his retreating back. Did I completely misread him? Does he think he just found a pet? Someone to warm his bed? What the fuck did I do?

He must notice my hesitation because he turns back, concern etched on his face. "Is... something wrong?"

"Your room?" I manage to choke out, fear suddenly coursing through my body. Is there nowhere I can truly be safe?

"I only have two beds," he explains, taking a step towards me. "And mine's more comfortable." He offers me a small, reassuring smile. "It's the best option for you."

My breath hitches in my throat. "I... Zyx..."

What is he going to do if I say no? Is he expecting me to offer myself up…as thanks?

I spent so many years running for orcs who would do this very thing for me. Did his god yank me here for a reason?

Just when I feel like I might start to hyperventilate, his silver eyes widen, and his mouth falls open in realization. "Oh, Bronwyn. I didn't mean... You won't be sleeping with me. That's my mistake."

Heat rushes to my face, and I'm sure I must be beet red. "I shouldn't have assumed... Wait." I could die from embarrassment right here and now. I went from insulting him by thinking he wants to sleep with me to stealing his bed. "Then where are you going to sleep?"

His wings rustle softly as he moves a little closer. Gods, he's gorgeous. It's not fair, but I can't seem to put any distance between us. Which makes this harder. I feel so drawn to him but my past trauma had me freaking out at the thought that he was trying to use my body.

After how nice he'd been all night.

Fuck, I'm disgusted with myself.

"The couch," he says simply.

"I can't kick you out of your own bed," I protest weakly. "Let me take the couch instead."

He chuckles, reaching out to take my hand. Every time we touch, I swear I feel a small part of me coming back to life. He gently tugs me down the hall. "I'm not going to let you do that."

"Then share it with me." The words tumble out before I can stop them. He freezes, turning towards me slowly, and I can see the surprise written all over his face.

And, of course it is. I'm sure now I'm the most contradicting person — or creature, I'm the only person — he's ever met. I just flipped out at the thought of him dragging me into that bed, and now I'm inviting him into it with me?

What the fuck is wrong with me?

But I've made my bed. Now I might as well get him in it with me — not touching obviously.

I quickly add, "Just so we're both comfortable, you know?"

He swallows hard, and I watch his throat bob, mesmerized by the movement. "Of course," he says, his voice a little rough, sending a shiver down my spine. "If that's what you want."

"It is," I hear myself say, surprising even myself with how quickly I agree.

Maybe I had one too many cups of that cider, or maybe it's just the intoxicating effect Zyx has on me. Either way, I can't bring myself to regret my decision.

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