Chapter 97: Cherish the Present

Elara’s POV

I pressed my hands against Vander’s chest, gently pushing him back, my heart racing as I broke our kiss. The space between us felt both necessary and agonizing, the cool desert air sharp against my heated skin.

“Vander, we can’t,” I whispered, my voice trembling. “Tomorrow, the election campaign starts. I can’t afford to be… distracted.”

He stood motionless, moonlight carving shadows a