Chapter 323

“Hold me,” Emmeline pleaded, pressing her face against the warmth of his chest.

She could feel his heart beating steadily beneath her cheek. “Hold me so tight that I forget everything else exists. Make the world disappear, Zavian. Please.”

Zavian’s strong arms enveloped her instantly, creating a protective cocoon around her trembling form. One hand splayed across her lower back while the other cradled the back of her head. “Baby,” his fingers tangled in her soft hair. “Did you miss me that much?” Concern colored every word despite his attempt at lightness.

A lump formed in Emmeline’s throat as she fought back the burning sensation behind her eyes. Words failed her, inadequate to express the tempest raging within.

Zavian drew back slightly and gently cradled her face. His thumbs brushed away tears she hadn’t realized were falling, leaving trails of warmth across her chilled skin.

“You look like you’re barely holding yourself together. What happened? Did