I’ve been waiting for him to say it. I needed him to stoprunning from it.
Sebastian watches me like he’s bracing for impact. Like he expects the world to punish him for being honest.
I lean forward and press my mouth to his.
The kiss is gentle. But it’s a seal. A promise.
When I pull back, I keep my forehead against his.
“Finally,” I whisper.
His breath shudders out. “That’s all you have to say?” he murmurs, voice shaky.
I smile, slow and lethal. “No,” I say softly. “I love you, too.”
He smiles, full and genuine.
I shift, happiness lighting up my insides, forgetting I’m injured. I wince as my bruises protest, and Sebastian’s eyes sharpen instantly.
“Don’t move,” he warns.
I roll my eyes. “I’m not made of glass.”
“No, you’re not,” he murmurs, and it comes out too honest. “But you’re fragile right now. And I’m going to protect you. Keep you safe.”
My throat tightens again. “Sebastian,” I whisper.
His gaze holds mine. “Stop moving,” he says, like it’s a need.
“I’m not going anywhere,” I repeat the vow, meaning it with every fiber of my being.
Sebastian’s hand slides up my arm, slow and careful, like he’s reminding himself I’m real.
He kisses my temple. Then the center of my forehead.
Then he leans back, breathing hard like that confession took something out of him.
And it did. The last wall surrounding his heart just fell, exposing it to me.
I reach down and stroke Mr. Pickles’ head absently.
He blinks up at me, smug and sleepy, and then turns his head to glare at the door like he’s daring Drew to try it.
I smile faintly.My little guard cat.
Sebastian shifts beside me, closer, like he can’t help himself now. His voice is low when he speaks again. “Drew’s going to blame himself.”
“He shouldn’t,” I say.
“He will,” Sebastian says, like it’s a fact.
I swallow. Then I look at him, my fingers still tangled in his. “We’ll deal with that,” I whisper. “Together.”
He nods once like he’s accepting the idea.
And for a man who’s spent his life building rules to avoid that word, it’s the bravest thing he’s ever done.
I settle back against the pillow, letting my eyes close. Mr. Pickles is warm on my chest. Sebastian’s warm hand is wrapped around mine.
