Page 35 of Hero of Havoc

Apparently, I’m intent on drowning in compliments right now.

“You just exude this energy, even before your magic came to fruition. You light up every room you’ve ever been in. It’s like your soul is shining bright, making sure the world gets a chance to see just how beautiful you are. Do you like it?” he asks, and I snuggle against him, avoiding his gaze.

“Maybe.”

He presses a kiss to the top of my head.

“I think it fits you, Sunshine.”

How do words light me up like this? I shake my head, returning my stare to his. “You just like making me blush,” I grumble, and he snickers.

“Maybe, but it’s still the truth, Sunshine.”

“Stop,” I insist, as he peppers kisses around my face.

“Sunshine.”

Kiss.

“Sunshine.”

Kiss.

“Sunshine.”

Kiss.

“Sunshine.”

Kiss.

“You’re incorrigible,” I say with a giggle, and he relents, turning to face me head-on as he brushes a loose curl of hair behind my ear.

“You are⁠—”

“No more compliments,” I interrupt, pressing the tip of my finger against his lips. “You’re going to ruin me.”

“You’ve already ruined me.”

The sincerity in his eyes threatens to floor me.

I don’t reply; I can’t. Instead, I lean into him.

Time passes, but I don’t care as I continue to shine in his presence.

“What day is it?” I blurt, and he huffs a laugh.

“Monday.”

I rear back in surprise. “Oh crap. What time is it? Have I⁠—”

“You missed classes, but I think it’s safe to say you needed to.”

It’s on the tip of my tongue to argue back, but I relent. He’s right. I would never have survived classes today.

“I can’t use that excuse tomorrow, though,” I mutter, and he nods.

“Then you won’t.” It’s as simple as that. “We do need to discuss protecting you, though,” he adds, and my spine stiffens.