Aloe’s POV
My eyelids drooped as exhaustion tugged at me, but every time I felt myself drifting toward sleep, the cold reminded me I couldn’t. Not yet. Not until I knew I was truly safe.
Somehow, Blake had managed to get a few pieces of wood burning, the flames flickering in the small hut, throwing shadows against the rough, damp walls.
I had no idea how he did it but I let myself be grateful, even if just for this small comfort.
“Come closer,” he murmured. “Stay by the heat. You’ll freeze if you stay like that.”
I shivered again and scooted closer, letting him wrap his arm around me. My head naturally rested against his chest, the rhythm of his heartbeat strange in its steadiness compared to the war outside. I could feel the tension in his muscles, the way he remained alert, yet he
