Fragile Heartbeat

He gathered her into his arms, slow and reverent, cradling her against his chest. Her head fell beneath his chin. Her body felt like ice.

Behind him, Thorne roared.

“She’s mine! You can’t take her! YOU DON’T DESERVE HER!”

Roth took a step toward him — but Kaelen turned.

Just one look.

One venom-laced glance.

“He’s mine.”

Roth’s man, about to land another blow, froze mid-swing—his fist suspe