It seemed Kaelan had been standing there for quite some time. Two or three cigarette butts lay scattered on the floor.
I let out a quiet, silent sigh of relief. Luckily, I hadn't called Caelum just now.
Lowering my eyes, I put on a meek expression, adding a hint of coquettishness. "Mr. Thorn, I'm sorry. That was my fault earlier. When there are no outsiders around, I'll try not to imitate Elara anymore. I'll just be Nancy."
Kaelan didn't speak. He grabbed my waist roughly, pulling me tightly against his chest. The sudden pressure made my nerves coil; I couldn't even speak.
"Lyra… it's you, isn't it?" he murmured hoarsely. "You came back. Tell me."
He lowered his head and kissed me. His lips brushed mine gently, the faint taste of tobacco slipping inside, mingling with mine.
The kiss
