Zylan stilled, his towering presence commanding the room. That alone spoke volumes, his very stance a barrier against vulnerability. Naomi rose to meet his gaze, her golden eyes tinged with bitterness. She offered a faint, tight-lipped smile, one that held more pain than warmth. What had she been thinking? That Zylan would confide in her? That he would trust her enough to share the secrets buried deep within him?
Her smile widened, but not out of joy. It was bitter, self-mocking, as though laughing at her own naivety. How foolish she'd been to think she was special enough for him to open up. She turned on her heel, the resolve to leave taking over before the ache in her chest could consume her.
Before she could take another step, a hand closed gently yet firmly around hers.
"Wait," he said.