The Illusion of Surrender

ROWAN’S POV

“Because the last time they were free, you tried to take my eyes out.” A smile, wry, almost self-deprecating. “I adore your wildness, querida. But I’d like to keep my vision.”

“What if I promise to behave?”

The words hang between us and I watch what it does to him — his pupils dilate, his breath catch, the careful composure wavers just enough for something vulnerable to show through.