Page 137 of Alien Burn

“Not this instant.”

“Then stop looking at me as though you've already left.”

He went still.

She set down her cup, suddenly less certain.

“I didn't mean⁠—”

“You did.”

“Yes.”

He reached across the small table. She put her hand in his, and he brought it toward him, resting it against his chest.

“I'm here.”

Her fingers moved against the cloth. His heart struck hard beneath her palm. He held her eyes and let her feel what the touch did to him; there was no point offering her another easy smile.

“I know,” she said softly.

“And I would like you to kiss me again,” she said.

His gaze dropped to her mouth. “I was hoping you would say that.”

She came around the table. He rose to meet her, one hand settling at her waist as she tipped her face up. Her mouth opened beneath his. He drew her closer, feeling her fingers press against his chest, and took his time with the kiss.

When he drew back, she stayed against him. “Better.”

He rested his forehead against hers for a moment, then checked the time. The guard rotation was close.

“Go do what you need to do.”

“I would rather stay.” He kissed her once more, briefly, and let his hands fall from her waist.

At the door she caught his sleeve again.

“Is that becoming a habit?” he asked.

“I'm deciding.”

“I could wear something easier to catch.”

She smiled, but her grip stayed firm.

“Come back when you can.”

“I will.”

He waited outside until her lock caught. Then he went to the holding block.

The corridor was colder than Sereya's room.

Dhomhes stood back where the light failed, his shoulder close to a pipe that vibrated steadily through the wall. From here he could see Burk's door and enough of the approach to know who came to it.

The visible guards had gone through their change. The ones waiting out of sight had checked in.

He had made the opening.