Irina's voice, though slightly breathless, carried a resolute determination as she leaned closer to him, her hands still pressed against the bare warmth of his chest.
"You… you are going to sleep here today," she said, her words steady despite the faint tremble in her lips.
Astron's sharp purple eyes locked onto hers, his expression shifting. For a brief moment, she saw a flicker of surprise, but it was gone as quickly as it came, replaced by a narrowed gaze. His lips curved ever so slightly, the faintest smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth.
"Really?" he asked, his voice low, a subtle challenge laced in his tone.
Irina's fingers tightened instinctively against his chest as her own resolve solidified. "Yes," she said firmly, her fiery gaze meeting his unflinchingly. Her heart raced, but she didn't back down. Not this time.
