Page 22 of Heatbound Hearts

Bronwyn takes my hand without hesitation this time, her fingers wrapping around mine. And once I help her across, she tips her head up and smiles at me. It takes my breath away.

I feel a warmth spreading through me that has nothing to do with the physical exertion of our journey. Her gratitude, her trust in me, it stirs something deep within my chest. I find myself wanting to protect her, to keep her safe, not just from physical dangers but from anything that might harm her.

As we make camp for the night, I can't help but position myself close to Bronwyn. Every sound in the darkness has me on alert, ready to defend her.

But it's more than just protection - I find myself craving her presence, wanting to be near her. The way she moves, the sound of her voice, even her scent - it all draws me in like nothing I've ever experienced before.

And I don't want it to ever stop.

12

BRONWYN

Istay next to Zyx at all times now. His hand is always reaching toward me, his wing curling around me, and I couldn't pull myself away from him, if I wanted to.

And I really, really don't want to.

But that hasn't stopped this particular section of our journey from being fraught with dangers. It's probably why he hovers next to me, seeing as I'm defenseless unlike Kairos and Naia.

If only it was for another reason.

"We only travel by ship," Zyx is saying as I stare out at the water in the distance. "Mostly out of courtesy to the gods and their realms. We want them to see us coming."

I nod. "But it's rare you go to other realms."

"Right. There are some instances in which?—"

He freezes, and Naia and Kairos just ahead of us turn. We've all grown accustomed to how Zyx reacts when he senses danger. But before he can say anything, the earth seems to shudder beneath my feet.

My heart pounds as pale, elongated forms burst from the ground, twisting in the dim light. I freeze, terror gripping me asmemories of Earth's horrors flash through my mind. But then Zyx moves next to me.

"Deepdwellers," he mutters, pulling my attention.

In an instant, he transforms. Gone is the gentle, patient guide I've come to know. In his place stands a fierce warrior, his midnight-blue wings spread wide, silver eyes blazing with determination.

"Stay behind me," Zyx growls.

I can't look away as he launches into action. His movements are fluid, almost dance-like, as he weaves between the attacking deepdwellers. His claws flash, retractable sharp tips I've noticed he rarely leaves out, leaving glowing trails in the air. Each strike is precise, calculated, yet executed with raw power that takes my breath away.

A deepdweller lunges at me, its grotesque face contorted in a snarl. Before I can react, Zyx is there. He catches the creature mid-air, his muscles rippling under his skin as he hurls it away. The sheer strength of the action leaves me stunned.

"You okay?" he asks, his intense gaze locking with mine for a split second before he's off again, a blur of midnight blue and flashing silver.

I nod, unable to form words. My heart races, and I realize it's not just from fear. Watching Zyx fight, seeing his power and grace, sends a thrill through me I've never experienced before. It's exhilarating and terrifying all at once.

As the last deepdweller falls, Zyx turns to me. His chest heaves, his eyes still burning with that fierce intensity. Sweat glistens on his skin, catching the dim light. He looks wild, dangerous, yet I've never felt safer.

"Are you hurt?" he asks, his voice rough with concern as he steps closer.

I shake my head, still too overwhelmed to speak. The adrenaline coursing through my veins makes me hyper-aware of his proximity, of the heat radiating from his body.

I can't tear my eyes away from Zyx as he checks on the others, his movements still charged with that raw energy from the fight. My heart races, and I'm not sure if it's from the lingering adrenaline or something else entirely.

As he turns back to me, I study him more closely. The fierce warrior from moments ago has melted away, replaced by the gentle guide I've come to know. His silver eyes, so intense during the battle, now shine with warmth and concern. It's a stark contrast that leaves me breathless.

"You sure you're alright?" Zyx asks, his voice soft as he approaches.

I nod, finding my voice at last. "Yeah, I'm fine. Thanks to you."

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