Baylee POV
We’re wrapped in sheets and shadows, and somehow, it still doesn’t feel close enough.
Caden’s chest rises slowly beneath my cheek, but even his steady breathing doesn’t calm the wildfire still burning under my skin. His arm curls protectively around me, palm spread flat against my back, and I swear—I swear—I can feel the mark on his hand glowing against my spine. The energy hasn’t faded. Not even a little. It hums between us, hot and addictive, like we’re still tangled in the bond, still unraveling in each other, thread by thread.
I try to speak. Nothing comes out.
So I just hold on tighter. Press my hand to his chest, right over his heart. It beats strong, steady, mine. I can feel our connection fluttering beneath his skin like wings. Like the bond is alive and breathing be
