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(Aurora's POV)
“Your hand is too tight on the grip, Aurora,” Marcus instructed, his deep voice steady and calm. “Loosen it slightly—that’s right. Good.”
His hand briefly covered mine to demonstrate. Even through the thick material of the ceremonial gloves, I could feel the warmth of his skin. My breath hitched, and I hated myself for it.
Focus, Aurora.
Cora didn’t make things easier. My wolf stirred frequently whenever Marcus was close. She was weakened, still healing from the pain of our dissolving bond with Asher, but it was like she couldn’t stop noticing Marcus’s presence. His scent, secure and grounding. His voice, smooth and guiding. Everything about him dragged at some raw edge of my focus.
“Try moving through the formation now,” Marcus instructed as he stepped back.
