Chapter 98

　　While the thunder rolled outside, the cool air from the drafty old windows blew across Rafik’s face and woke him when the goosebumps rose on his arms. The fluffy pile of blankets had worked themselves down off to their feet, and he wiggled his toes until his arm reached them.

　　After he tucked her underneath them, two fingers bowed to grip the wristwatch on his nightstand, and his sleepy eyes squinted to it as he collapsed to the mattress. But the little box in his cloak pocket called to him, and he rolled to the floor.

　　Like a kitten that protects its milk bowl, a growl rumbled in Tessa’s throat as his warmth faded into the air above them.

　　His worn gray pants slid up his long, strong legs, and the corner of his eyes crinkled as he smiled at her soft smoky snores.