Chapter 162

Emmeline’s lashes drifted downward in a practiced pout, though the effect was somewhat ruined by the smirk still playing about her mouth. “But the shadow lurks in darkness, and we both know how much we favor shadowy atmospheres.”

Turning his face forward once more, Zavian lifted his gaze toward the overcast sky, seeming to ponder her words.

At length, he spoke in a low, rasping tone thick with heated promise. “Would you prefer I exchange my heart for you, then? At least that way, you’d be assured of taking precedence over all else...”

The breath caught in Emmeline’s throat at the weight behind that loaded question.

She could only stare utterly transfixed at the strong line of his profile as he disentangled himself from her embrace with obvious reluctance.

Pivoting to face her fully, his eyes performed their customary, smoldering inspection of her body, seemingly committing every lush curve and toned line to memory.

“Have I mentioned lately how utt