-Ronan Hale:
My heart hammered against my ribs, a rush of warmth coursing through me as I let my gaze settle on Lucien. Elara shifted at the edge of the bed, watching us both, her lips parted and her eyes filled with anticipation. I could see the subtle movement of her hand on her body, and it sent a jolt of heat through me—knowing she wanted this as much as we did.
I turned my focus back to Lucien. He seemed as nervous as I felt, but there was determination in his gaze, too. We had said our "I love yous" just moments before, and those words still reverberated inside me, fueling my courage. I lifted my hand to cup his cheek, brushing my thumb lightly across his lips.
"You sure?" Lucien's voice was quiet, a bit unsteady.
I nodded. "Yes."
