[Ryder]
Having to sleep with the talisman around my neck was usually uncomfortable but completely necessary. For someone who didn't twist and turn while sleeping, it was doable. Regardless of Malik seeming to calm down around Celeste, I didn’t want him to mark her.
I glanced at Celeste, lying at the far edge of the bed with her back turned to me. Her thin nightgown barely concealed the curves she tried so hard to hide. She'd hung her underwear to dry, having only that one pair. Fortunately, clothing wouldn't be a problem by tomorrow.
I couldn't stop reminding myself that she didn't belong here. Not in this bed. Not in my world. But what else could I have done when she asked to tag along? Leave her out there to fend for herself? No. Even I wasn't that cruel.
I sighed, dragging my hand o
