"Love? Are you alright? You look pale." Malphas's voice broke through the static in my head. His hands cradled my face like he thought I might vanish.
I blinked up at him and forced a shaky smile, tilting my head just enough to sell the act. "I'm okay," I said softly, brushing a kiss against his cheek. "Just a little shocked, that's all."
His eyes burned with concern—or what he thought was love. "Don't worry, my little goddess," he whispered, pulling me into his arms. "I'll protect you. Nothing will happen to you."
Andrew said the same thing once.
My chest throbbed. His face slipped into my thoughts like a ghost I'd never invited. That crooked grin. Those stubborn eyes. I
could almost feel his hand in mine, the heat of his skin, the weight of everything I left behind.
I miss you.
B
