Page 327 of Axis of Fire

I had actually been planning to spend the night on the comfortable little loveseat just to avoid sharing a bed with Airis.

The temperature dropped just as quickly as the rain intensified.

The balcony didn't even have proper curtains—only a small extension of the roof that barely sheltered the loveseat from the rain.

Maybe I could sneak inside, grab a few warm things, and settle out here for the night?

The click of the balcony door interrupted my thoughts.

Immediately, I straightened my back and pretended to admire the view.

“It's raining,” Airis said.

A wave of warm air drifted out from the room behind him, and suddenly I wanted nothing more than to soak up every bit of it.

“Yes,” I replied. “I noticed.”

“And you're freezing.”

“What makes you think that? I happen to prefer cooler weather.”

“We've shared a room for several days now. I know your ideal temperature is somewhere between a summer heatwave and the surface of the sun.”

“Maybe I overheated, and now my body wants a change.”

I refused to give in.

“Do I need to carry you inside?”

“By your own rules, you shouldn't be touching me until I hand over the rest of myself.”

I swear, if I hadn't said it, I would've choked on my own venom.

“And that's why you've decided to get sick?” he asked dryly. “So this is your strategy? Get sick until I surrender everything?”

I snorted.

Then, after a heavy sigh, I said,

“Just let me be alone.”

“You can be alone in a warm room. I'll stay out here.”

“I've already claimed this spot.”

“Just like I've already claimed the bed. You won't notice much difference.”

I stayed silent.

Not because I was considering his offer.

I was trying to figure out how to get him back inside as quickly as possible.

For some reason—

and most likely out of sheer stupidity—

I was determined to defend my place on this balcony.