It happened when I reached for him.
We were alone in the library, dusk bleeding through the windows. He had said something kind—too kind—and before I could stop myself, my fingers brushed his wrist.
The moment stretched.
His breath changed. So did mine.
I stepped back instantly, heart racing.
"This can't happen," I said.
Cassian frowned. "What can't?"
I turned away. "You should stop spending time with me."
"Why?"
Because men die.
Because I am danger.
Because I wanted him.
"I don't explain myself," I said coldly.
He studied me for a long moment. "You're lying," he said quietly. "And whatever you're hiding… it's hurting you."
I left him standing there.
My hands trembled all the way to my chambers.