Nora's POV
I waved my hand over the front door, using magic to release the locks. I shifted the cardboard box against my hip, already regretting my impulsive decision to transform Phoenix into anything heavier than a feather. Before my fingers could reach for the handle, the door swung open.
"Nora," James said, pulling the door wide.
Sunlight seared his exposed skin, yet he didn't even wince. Mack shot through the opening first, and I hurried after him, using my foot to slam the door shut. Parts of James's face showed burn marks from the sun, but that wasn't what made my breath catch. His eyes were wide with concern, filled with a fear I had never witnessed before. He wasn't afraid for himself. He was terrified of losing me.
"You should have contacted me immediately," he said.
I set the box containing Phoenix down carefully, and James pulled me against his chest.
