Elena's POV:
Kane reached for me instinctively, his hand brushing against my arm, and I latched onto him like he was my lifeline. His touch offered that small measure of relief again, and I craved it, needed more of it.
"Kane..." I whispered, my voice barely audible. "Don't leave me..."
"I'm not going anywhere," he said firmly, but I could hear the strain in his voice, see the battle in his eyes.
I clung to him, my trembling hands grasping his arms as he tried to keep me steady. Every brush of his fingers against my skin sent a shiver of relief through me, and my body responded instinctively, craving more. I felt the heat rise in a different way, my need shifting from pain to something far more primal.
I leaned into him, my hands sliding up to his shoulders as I buried my face against his neck. His scent, his warmth—it was intoxicating, and I couldn't help but press closer, seeking the comfort and the reprieve only he could offer.
