Rory's breathing grew uneven in the darkness. Jasper's arm around her felt like an inescapable restraint—yet it was so careful, so tender, that it made her heart tremble.
His chest was pressed firmly against her back.
"Jasper…"
Her voice was barely audible, the last syllable cut off as his arm tightened slightly around her waist.
The light-brain lay discarded on the bedside table, giving off a faint clink as it settled.
Jasper rested his chin in the hollow of her shoulder, his nose brushing her sensitive earlobe as if by accident.
Rory could feel the heat of his breath, carrying that faint, cool fragrance unique to him.
"Rory… I've advanced."
His voice was deeper than usual—low and husky in a way that sent a shiver down her spine.
"We can bond now."
He had waited for this day for a very long time.
