Chapter 56 · The Broken Seal

"Then you'll have nothing left to save."

Cassian's cheek twitched.

"You really know how to ask for help," he said.

"You really know how to make a woman beg for it."

For half a breath, his eyes dropped to my mouth.

Then his hand closed around the back of my neck.

Not rough. Worse.

Firm enough to keep me from turning away.

"I never wanted you begging."

"You made damn sure I did."

"Mara."

"Break the seal."

His thumb brushed over my pulse.

Heat shot down my throat. The bond under my skin answered him with one hard, traitorous pull.

I hated that it still knew him.

Cassian leaned in. His breath warmed my cheek. His fingers tightened at my nape.

"If I do this, I can't protect you with rank."

"Then protect me with your hands."

His eyes sharpened.

"That's what you want?"

"I want you to stop asking permission from people who want me dead."

For one dangerous second, neither of us moved.

Then Cassian turned away.

He drew his sword and slammed the command seal against the edge.

The first strike cracked the metal.

Evelyn's smile vanished. "Commander, don't."

The second strike split the seal in two.