The spoon hovered near my lips, laden with warm broth. "Come on, Elara. Just a little more," Kaelen coaxed, his voice a gentle rumble that vibrated through me.
I managed a weak shake of my head. "I'm… I'm full." The lie felt heavy on my tongue, but the thought of another mouthful churned my stomach. It wasn't the broth; it was the situation. The guilt.
He didn't push, thankfully. He set the bowl aside, his eyes, usually bright and full of life, shadowed with concern. He took my foot in his large hand, the warmth radiating through my skin. His thumbs began to knead gently, easing the ache that had settled deep in my muscles.
"Better?" he asked, his gaze locking with mine.
"Mm-hmm," I murmured, closing my eyes. It was better. Everything was better when he was near. Except for the gnawing
