Chapter 285

• Noemi’s voice crept into my mind, chillingly clear as if she’d materialized before me. I jolted awake, groaning softly when I saw the clock read five a.m. Three hours of sleep, yet I felt strung out and jittery, like I’d downed a shot of caffeine. Slipping carefully from Leonardo’s solid embrace, I perched on the edge of the bed, letting my breathing steady. I watched him sleep, counting each soft rise and fall of his chest.
• My fingers twitched as I recalled the image of him — blank, his usual warmth drained, like a flame extinguished and replaced by something soulless. I forced myself to push it aside; sleep was what I needed. A few hours of peace might offer me a fresh perspective on the nightmare.
• As I edged closer to Leonardo, my fingers found their way to his jaw. I let myself savor the moment, needing the reassurance of his presence. His skin was smooth except for the hint of stubble. When I was certain he wouldn’t stir, I traced his cheek, my gaze settling on his elven, pointed ears. They fascinated me more than my own. I trailed my finger along the curve, stopping just shy of the point.