Close Your Eyes

Vivienne’s POV

“I should have been here sooner” Valentin whispered as his thumb brushed my cheek. “I’m so sorry, zvezda.”

The apology made fresh tears fill my eyes again, but before I could respond, he continued, his tone firmer.

“I cannot carry you right now. I need you behind me, not in front. If danger comes again, you will be safer there. Do you understand?”

The logic pierced through the haze