The tent felt impossibly small as Kael turned Elaine toward him, his dark eyes burning with a hunger that made her breath catch. The sounds of battle had faded to a distant murmur, replaced by the thundering of her own heartbeat.
"Elaine," he whispered again, his voice rough with need.
She couldn't speak. His hand cupped her face, thumb brushing across her cheek with unexpected gentleness.
"I need you," he breathed against her lips.
Before she could respond, his mouth claimed hers. The kiss was desperate, demanding, and achingly tender all at once. Elaine's hands found his chest, feeling his heart race beneath her palms. The bond sang through her veins, urging her closer, deeper.
When they finally broke apart, both breathing hard, Kael rested his forehead against hers.
"Stay with me
