Page 280 of Black Reign

“Little.”

His thumb works carefully along the tight muscle.

I make an involuntary sound.

His hand stills.

The silence changes.

Even half asleep, I feel it.

Xavier’s gaze drops to my mouth.

My heartbeat wakes before the rest of me does.

He clears his throat.

“Let me take you to bed, princesse.”

The French rolls through the dark.

I stare up at him.

“You called me princess.”

“Apparently.”

“That's dangerously close to sweet.”

“Don't tell anyone.”

I smile sleepily.

“I can walk.”

“I know.”

Then he bends and picks me up anyway.

A surprised laugh escapes me.

“Xavier.”

One arm beneath my knees.

The other around my back.

Effortless.

His chest is warm against my cheek.

“Put me down.”

“No.”

“I am capable of walking.”

“You were kidnapped, haven't slept properly, and your neck is trying to mutiny.”