Aurora
He steps inside the cell, each step deliberate and intending to hurt, to bruise, causing fear to stir in my chest, but I didn't budge. I force myself to remain still, holding onto a fragile sense of calm as he closes the distance between us, crouching slightly to meet my level.
His scent, a wildflower mixed with cedar and something else unmistakenly dark and ancient, filled my nostrils and stirred something unfamiliar within me.
My breath catches in my throat and makes every ounce of confidence slip away quietly, leaving behind a cold wake.
He leans in, and I try to step backwards, but the chains immediately dig into my skin, the pain sharp and piercing, a low groan slipping through me, making my attempt to pull away impossible.
His lips finally brush the nape of my neck, and
