Kael pushed off the pillar and walked closer. “Maybe I was just making sure you didn’t accidentally blow up the temple.” She grinned. “Please. I’m way past that stage.” They stopped a few feet apart. The moonlight illuminated both of them clearly now. And the familiar warmth returned again. Stronger than before. Aria felt it first. That quiet pull in her chest. Kael felt it too. Neither of them moved. Aria tilted her head slightly. “Okay… this thing between us is definitely getting stronger.” Kael nodded. “Yeah.” She took a slow step closer. “Still think we should ignore it?” Kael hesitated. Then he shook his head. “Not really.” Aria smiled faintly. “Good.” The distance between them had almost disappeared now. Only a step remained. Kael looked down at her. “You’re

