Aniela’s chest felt heavy as she stepped back from the spot where Kafziel leaned against the tree. The night air was cold and biting, carrying the scent of damp leaves and pine. She hugged her arms to herself, feeling the chill creep under her jacket, but her mind was elsewhere. I need to get back to work. I can’t linger out here. There’s still so much to do…
Her boots crunched softly against the gravel path as she took a step toward the faint light of the bar. She forced herself to focus on the familiar surroundings—the warm glow spilling from the windows, the smell of cleaning products and lingering alcohol inside—but her gaze flicked back to him.
He was watching her, and she felt it immediately. His dark eyes, normally confident and teasing, were soft, almost pleading, fixed on her as
