Chapter 23

Syria’s POV

It hit me all at once. The sandalwood with a hint of gunpowder. It was unmistakable.

Slowly, I lifted my head, my heart pounding against my ribs. Even though his face was mostly hidden, I knew it was him.

“You-”

Before I could finish, he leaned closer, his voice low and urgent as he whispered near my lips. “Don’t look through the window,” he said. “But listen to me carefully.”

I nodded, too stunned to say anything back.

He leaned in again, closer this time, his scent clouding my se