But as we continue deeper into the forest, I can’t shake the strange flutter in my chest every time he looks at me or understand why my pulse quickens whenever he’s close. I’ve never felt anything like this before, and I don’t know what to make of it.
Chapter Nine
Lucian
The fire glows faintly in the darkness, softly illuminating Astra’s sleeping form. She is curled on her side with Luna pressed against her chest, her expression defenseless. She’s not at all worried about being around me, the most dangerous of predators. I don’t know whether to call that foolish or brave, but she has no sense of self-preservation whatsoever.
She moves in her sleep as if seeking heat, and when her head finds my thigh, she pulls herself up onto it, mumbling something incoherently. Watching her use my thi
