Chapter 199

For the first time since way back at the beginning of their relationship, Leesa felt a bit awkward around Rave. That was totally normal, she told herself. Balin had just given them permission to do what she had been longing to do for months—kiss for as long as they wanted without worrying about her safety. They were both pretty inexperienced with this stuff, so it was only natural to feel a little nervous. She gave Rave’s arm a squeeze.

“Talk about a silver lining,” she said, smiling. “I’m just sorry it had to be because of something like this, with your fire being weakened.”

“I’m not,” Rave said. He reached up and tenderly brushed a few stray strands of Leesa’s hair away from her forehead. “I told you I would give up my fire for you. I meant it.”

Leesa sighed. Even without his heat, she still thrilled to his touch.

“And I meant it when I said I would never let you do that.”

Rave gently cupped her head in his strong hands, his fingers entwined