**Riley**
The sunlight hitting my face felt like a physical assault. I squeezed my eyes shut, but the memories of last night rushed back anyway. My skin still felt sensitized, humming with the ghost of Kai’s touch. I could almost hear his low, gravelly voice whispering those dark promises in the dark. He had finally taken everything, and I had given it to him with a desperation that terrified me.
I rolled over, my muscles aching in ways they never had before. The spot beside me was empty, the sheets cold. Of course he was gone. Kai never stayed to play the part of the comforting partner. He took what he wanted and left the wreckage behind. I sat up, pulling the duvet tightly around my chest as if I could shield myself from the guilt already clawing at my throat. This wasn't just ano
