KAEL'S POV
When I realised she was alive, I lost control. I pulled her into me without thinking, crushing her against my chest, my arms locked around her as if the world might rip her away if I loosened my hold. Her scent gave me comfort.
She coughed sharply.
The sound jolted me back to myself. I released her instantly, horror flooding me as she frowned, her breath heavy, lashes fluttering as she tried to focus.
Her eyes lifted to my face.
Then they dropped. Her breath hitched when she saw blood soaking my armour, the deep gashes across my skin.
She pushed against me, trying to rise.
“No.” The word tore out of me. My arms tightened around her again. My wolf surged forward, growling with a snarl. Mine. Hurt. Stay down.
“Kael,” she whispered, voice hoarse. “Please.”
I shook my head.
