Rafael had not expected the loose pebbles in the cave, much less that they would reveal his presence. ’Twas Edward who had surprised him, not the other way around, much to his dismay. He had erred in his haste to save Ceara and he feared she would pay the price. As he had suspected earlier, he and Edward were evenly matched, save that there was a viciousness about Edward.
He chose to let the other man triumph over him in the short term, wanting to be sure he guaranteed Ceara’s welfare.
The disappointment in her expression when she reappeared in the water had torn his heart in two. He had the opportunity to admire how she considered the situation, and he knew she was seeking some advantage.
He did not anticipate the one she chose.
Beyond doubt, Ceara was a marvel.
She stood up abruptly
