Father’s advice

Silas reluctantly pulled back, his heart thumping. He fought the urge to stay entangled with her, his body a taut coil of barely contained desire. But reason prevailed. Esme was still weak and needed rest.

"Sleep," he whispered. He brushed his knuckles against her cheek, the touch sending a jolt through him. "I'll be back soon."

"Do you need to work tonight as well?" Esme whined, pouting with disappointment. "I thought you'd stay with me."

Silas offered a reassuring smile. "No, no work tonight. I just need to talk to Dad about something. I'll be back before you know it." He leaned down and pressed a gentle kiss to her cheek, the warmth of her skin lingering on his lips even after he pulled away.

Esme watched him leave, a soft smile playing on her lips. Her hand fluttered to her cheek, tracing the spot where his kiss had landed.