Chapter 72. Not Tainted

She heard Alaric's low voice, tinged with fear and concern, "I'm sorry I'm late…"

Hearing his voice so close, Emerald felt a sudden rush of life course through her body.

A warmth spread through her chest, and when she looked up, their eyes met through the misty curtain of rain. His gaze was deep, almost devouring, dark as the night but laced with a comfort that calmed her heart.

She could feel the cold, distinct scent of him, grounding her even more.

She forced herself to remember that she wanted to guard her feelings, to treat this as something fleeting and meaningless.

Yet in the darkest moments, he was the only one she thought of.

Now that he was here, the frantic pounding of her heart began to quiet, as if she had found her refuge.

Lance's warning echoed in her mind. Standing on her toes, she grabbed his tie and pulled him closer, cutting off anything he might say.

Their lips met in a heated, fierce kiss, her bite almost punishing, taking