Chapter 18 · Let go of my wrist

"Let go of my wrist."

"Not a real answer."

"It's the one that keeps your bones unbroken."

"You think threats scare me?"

"No. I think you're smart enough to understand them."

The car jolted again. His grip tightened, and Lia's shoulder struck his chest.

Cael caught the back of her coat before she hit the seat. His arm locked around her waist for one breath. Two.

The touch was careful despite his strength.

That was worse.

Lia felt the heat of him through two layers of clothing. Felt the rough edge of his breath near her temple. His heart was beating too fast, hard enough to knock against her ribs where they touched.

Then his fingers jerked away.

"Don't look at me like that," he muttered.

"Like what?"

"Like you trust me."

"I don't trust you."

"Good."

"I was checking whether you planned to bite me."

His eyes dropped to her mouth before he could stop them.

The silence lasted half a second.

Sable made a loud, disgusted sound from the front. "If either of you starts kissing back there, I'm driving into the next wall."

"Keep your eyes on the tunnel," Cael said.

"I am.