AFTER THE FALL
She dropped instinctively.
He followed, pinning her safely beneath his body as debris showered around them.
Her heart slammed violently.
Lucian’s breath was hot against her cheek.
“Elara,” he whispered, deadly calm, “are you hurt?”
“N-no,” she breathed.
He exhaled shakily, forehead brushing hers again, this time out of relief, not desire.
“Good. Stay behind me.”
He rose fluidly, pulling her to her feet.
They darted down the service hall a winding corridor meant for staff, not guests.