Chapter 41: Dangerous Games

(Robert's POV)

I paced the length of my room, my mind a chaotic whirlwind of conflicting thoughts and emotions. The memory of Lyra's touch, her forehead pressed against mine, her power flowing through me, haunted my every waking moment. It was maddening, infuriating, and... intoxicating.

"Get a grip, Robert," I muttered to myself, running a hand through my disheveled hair. "It's just another game. Nothing more."

But even as I said the words, I knew they were a lie. The way Lyra looked at me, with compassion instead of fear, with kindness instead of disgust... it was unlike anything I'd ever experienced. And despite my best efforts, I found myself craving more.

A sharp knock at my door jolted me from my thoughts. "Enter," I called, schooling my features into their usual mask of indifference.