Page 60 of Crossing Between
Varon's expression was unreadable in the dim porch light. "I wanted to check on you. After everything that's happened, how are you really?"
The genuine concern in his voice caught me off guard. I was so used to his stoic, commanding presence that these glimpses of tenderness always threw me.
"I'm," I started to say 'fine' automatically, but stopped myself. "I'm scared," I admitted instead. "About Ryan, about the Essencefeaster, about what all this means for me. For us."
Varon stepped closer, his tall frame blocking the wind. "Fear is natural. It keeps us alert, keeps us alive."
"Is that vampire wisdom?" I teased gently.
A small smile tugged at his lips. "Something like that." He reached out, his cool fingers brushing my cheek. "But know this, whatever happens, I will protect you. We all will."
The intensity in his eyes made my heart race. I leaned into his touch, craving the connection. "I know."
For a moment, we stood there in silence, the weight of unspoken words hanging between us. Then Varon leaned down, his lips brushing mine in a kiss so gentle it made my chest ache. It was different from our passionate encounter before. It was tender, almost reverent.
When he pulled back, his expression had softened. "Get some rest. I'll check in tomorrow."
With that, he turned and joined Elias, who was waiting by the car. I watched them go, my fingers touching my lips where I could still feel the pressure of his kiss.
When I went back inside, Kenji was tidying up the cards, a knowing smirk on his face. "So, the vampire's got it bad, huh?"
I felt my cheeks warm. "I don't know what you're talking about."
"Sure you don't," he chuckled, setting the deckaside. "Just like you don't know what's going on with you and Elias. Or you and me."
I sat beside him on the couch, suddenly feeling shy. "It's complicated."
"It doesn't have to be," Kenji's voice gentler than I expected. "The red string connects all four of us. We're meant to be together, in whatever way feels right."
"All four of us?" I raised an eyebrow. "Including you and Elias? And Varon?"
Kenji's grin turned wicked. "Oh, especially us three. We've got history."
"History?" My imagination immediately conjured images that made my face flush hot. "What kind of history?"
"The kind I'd be happy to tell you about," he winked, "but Varon asked to speak with you alone first."
I blinked in confusion. "He just did. On the porch."
Kenji shook his head. "Not that. He wants to talk to you tomorrow. Vampire stuff, I think."
"Oh." I wasn't sure what to make of that. "Okay."
We sat in comfortable silence for a moment, the events of the day catching up to me. A yawn escaped before I could stifle it.
"Bedtime for the human," Kenji teased, standing and offering me his hand. "Come on, I'll tuck you in."
I let him lead me to the bedroom, too tired to protest. As I crawled under the covers, Kenji hesitated by the door.
"I'll be on the couch if you need anything," he seemed reluctant.
"Stay," I patted the space beside me. "Please? I don't want to be alone tonight."
His expression softened. "You sure?"
"Positive."
He slid in beside me, his large framedwarfing my bed. I curled against him, my head resting on his chest, listening to the steady rhythm of his heartbeat. His arm wrapped around me, warm and secure.
