Loyal By Choice

ROWAN’S POV

“Mateo—”

“I’m not asking you to choose right now.” He steps closer. Close enough that I catch his warmth, his scent. “I’m telling you that when this ends, I’ll be waiting.” His eyes hold mine, intense and very alive. “Very patiently.”

My heart is slamming against my ribs.

I should feel flattered. Or frightened. Or something other than this treacherous heat spreading through my chest.