I stumbled down the hall, my legs still sore from the first stage of the competition. Every muscle ached, and my body was begging for rest. My head felt heavy, my shoulders tight, but I had to keep moving. I needed to get to my room, close the door, take a warm bath and finally breathe.
Then I froze.
Aedric.
He was standing there, tall and calm, that same confident air he always carried. My stomach twisted painfully. I hadn't expected to see him here, not now, not when I was so tired and sore.
My first instinct was to back away, but before I could move…
Kaelen's hand wrapped around my waist.
His touch was firm, possessive. My body stiffened as his cold, sharp gaze landed on Aedric. It was the kind of look that could cut steel. My heart stuttered in fear, in anticipation
