Chapter 13

Claire

My eyes fluttered open, and for a moment, I allowed myself to savor the gentle rush of Liam’s worried breath against my cheek. I allowed myself to savor the moment that we were living in. His grip on my hand tightened as he leaned in, eyes heavy with concern.

It's been a very long time since he's approached me this gently, since he's looked me in the eye, since his touch was as gentle as a feather.

“Claire,” he whispered urgently. “Are you all right? How are you feeling?”

I blinked slowly, carefully schooling my features into the perfect mask of confusion and exhaustion. I looked around the infirmary room before turning my attention to him.

“Liam?” I murmured softly, feigning weakness. “What…happened? How did I get here?”

“You collapsed,” he explained gently. “Kai ran to get the healer. You scared the hell out of me. What happened to you? We were okay a while ago and then suddenly you collapsed.”

Inside, I smirke