Zara’s POV
I can't fathom his hesitation. It defies all reason.
I've always given him grace before; his reasons for keeping his distance were sound, even if they hurt. But this time, his excuse is a flimsy shield.
To pause over a single kiss? Now? After we already crossed that threshold leaving Martin Hospital?
If he won't bridge the gap between us, I will. I close the space and press my mouth to his.
And just like that, instantly, my heart plummets.
The first thing I register is how he goes completely rigid, refusing to kiss me back.
A second later, through our bond, I feel it: a jolt of pure panic from him. He's resisting me, and... he's deliberately hiding something.
Blair screams in my head. Zara! I told you something was wrong with him! Now I’m sure of it. I can feel his core—
