Chapter 34

Avinia’s voice off in the distance jarred Kit back to reality. While she was fairly certain they hadn’t broken any rules, she couldn’t take the chance. Kit pushed herself away from him, but Jecobian’s mouth would not release her neck. She tried again, wanting to say his name, to feel it on her tongue, but not allowing herself to speak. She doubted her own mother would have her head for any of this, particularly since the queen seemed to like Jecob, but she didn’t want to take the chance. One more shove, and he looked up, finally hearing Avinia’s cries, too.

He pulled on her arm, as if he would lead her farther into the garden, but she knew better. Avinia would have the entire guard out looking for her. She gestured back at the gate and realized she was allowed to speak to her cousin. “I’m coming! Just a minute!”

With a heavy sigh, Jecobian leaned down and kissed the back of her hand, and Kit soaked in the warmth tha