Page 74 of Unveiled

Connor did not budge. “Too bad.”

Adrian opened his mouth, likely to say something sharp and clever, but the mark pulsed suddenly, visibly, glowing like embers through cloth. His breath hitched.

Connor grabbed his arm. “There. That. That’s why you’re not walking around alone.”

Adrian’s hand flew to his chest, wincing. “It’s a flare.”

“A flare,” Connor repeated flatly. “Adrian, if your heartbeat got any more erratic, I’d be digging a grave.”

Adrian shot him a murderous look. “You’re exceptionally bad at comfort.”

“Good thing I’m not trying to comfort you.”

“Then what are you doing?”

“Stopping you from collapsing in the middle of the village.”

Adrian closed his eyes. For a moment, all the fight seemed to drain out of him, leaving him looking unbearably tired. Then he straightened with resolve.

“I’m fine now.” His eyes dared Connor to say anything.

Connor sighed. “So sue me for worrying. Come on. You don’t have to do this alone.”

Adrian nodded. “I am aware. Thank you.” He looked around. “Everyone is staring.”

“Good,” Connor said. “Maybe they’ll stop touching you every five seconds.”

Adrian chuckled.

Connor guided him away from the open space, his hand hovering near Adrian’s lower back, but not touching, though close enough to make sure Adrian would feel the heat of it. Every few steps, the mark pulsed again.

When Adrian stumbled on uneven stone, Connor’s arm was around his waist before Adrian could blink. Adrian stiffened. “Connor. Enough.”

“Just walk,” Connor murmured, his voice rougher than intended. “I’ve got you.”

“You don’t need to—”

“I’m not letting you fall.”

Adrian rolled his eyes. “You’re being absurd.”

“Probably.”

“You’re hovering.”

“Definitely.”

Adrian shot him a glare. “Do you think this helps?”

“Yes.”

“How?”

“Because you’re not lying on the ground unconscious.”

Adrian laughed. “You are insufferable.” He tapped his chest. “It’s me they want.”

“Aye,” Connor said softly. “And I’m not going to let them have you.”