Page 45 of Keeper

The torch throws shadows across his face as his jaw tightens, and he speaks in a flat voice. “You’re walking a dangerous line, Everly.”

Something breaks inside of me. Something that no longer fears him. Or maybe I stepped across some invisible barrier the moment I challenged him.

Using my newfound confidence, I step closer to him, feeling the heat of his body against mine. “I’m not afraid of you, Cenric.”

His expression shifts, the anger melting away faster than snow in summer. His eyes darken to a stormy, smoldering shade of blue, and for the span of a single heartbeat, his gaze drops to my mouth.

Oh.

This is...new.

I should step back. I should definitely step back. But my feet have grown roots, anchoring me to this spot.

Don’t do anything stupid.

Apparently, my body has other ideas. I close my eyes and lean in ever so slightly.

Kiss me.

No, wait.

Don’t kiss me.

I’m supposed to be mad at you.

But also...maybe kiss me?

“You have a bug in your hair.” Cenric’s voice breaks through, and my eyes fly open as he plucks a moth from my hair and releases it.

Disappointment floods through me as I step back, gaining distance and hopefully clarity.

“I should go,” he says stiffly.

No, don’t go.

Stay and...what?

Yell at me some more?

Pull more insects from my hair?

I nod, trying to act unaffected but probably looking like I have a nervous twitch. “Right. Important warrior business to attend to, I’m sure. Swords to polish, maps to scowl at.”

He gives me a long look, then turns to leave.

Do something.

Say something.

“Cenric, wait,” I blurt out.

He pauses, hand on the tent flap, and glancesback at me.

Now what?

“I... I...” I fumble for words. “Thanks for not kissing me.”

Wait…what?

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