Page 69 of The Immortal’s Mark

“Yes,” I whisper. My thoughts spin as I try to understand how it could be possible to view the past when I’d already done so, but after never trying it before.

I groan and squeeze my eyes closed, desperate for something—anything to make sense.

“What happened?” I ask. “After my mother threw me out of your head?”

“A bit of an uproar, but nothing Lome couldn’t handle. Alex and I came right here after learning of your latest trick.”

Trick makes it seem innocuous…easy.

It certainly doesn’t feel that way.

I sigh and meet Des’s gaze. “That was…strange. I didn’t think going back in time would put me in your head. I’m sorry if that was intrusive.”

“That depends.”

“On?”

“Did you hear any of my thoughts?”

My brows furrow. “No.”

“Then it wasn’t intrusive.” He reaches and gathers one of my cold, numb hands between his, working warmth back into it by rubbing them together. “I find your ability fascinating. I’m curious what else you can do with it.”

“You and everyone else.” I scoff. “I bet Thane is already trying to figure out a way to use me to his advantage.”

Des’s hands still. “Thane is suffering and not acting like himself.”

“I know that⁠—”

“But I will not let him use you against your will. I promise.”

I lift my eyes.

Sincerity greets me.

“Thank you,” I murmur.

He dips his chin, then resumes rubbing our hands together. Soothing sparks tingle my skin.

I study the strand of hair that hovers over his forehead, resisting the urge to push it back and caress his face.

My fatigue is lowering my guard, but I need to pull it together.

“Is there a reason you’re here?” I ask.

“What?”

My cheeks flame, but I press on, staring at his strong fingers pressing against mine.

“You told the others to leave. That you needed to talk to me. Was it just about the cognizant thing, or…”

I trail off, kicking myself for leading us to yet another embarrassing conversation. Why can’t I just be normal?

“I wanted to check on you and make sure that you’re okay.”

“Someone else could have done that.”

“I have told you…I care for you.”