Under the Veil I Rule

Chapter 23

She lay on her side with her back to Finnian, close to the edge of the bed but not so close that she might easily fall off. It was deliberate, almost like she was consciously maintaining that perfect balance.

Everything about her was impeccably composed, not a hair out of place, which only made Finnian's curiosity itch even more. It was like she was wrapped in layers, and he couldn't help but wonder if she was just as perfect underneath.

Finnian stood by the bed, watching Amara for a long moment before he finally lay down himself. But that itch of curiosity only grew stronger, and his body felt unusually heated.

He pushed the covers down to his waist, still feeling stifled, and loosened a couple of buttons on his shirt, contemplating whether to turn down the air conditioning.

sensation spread through him, and he froze, eyes snapping open. Though he'd never been in such a situation before, being a

motion, he threw the covers off and sat

wrong?" she asked, turning her head to look at him, her

noticed the subtle redness at the corners of her eyes. Her gaze was dewy, her voice delicate. Beneath the covers, her legs were clearly pressed tightly together, a clear sign she was enduring

without a word, without even

the dim light, his pale skin took on a slight flush, his sharp features softened by the moisture in his eyes. He looked

the top, revealing a hint of his

the covers tightly, feeling that tingling sensation intensify. She was so thirsty, desperate for a drink of water. And she was hot, burning up, wanting to shed

her gaze flickered nervously, Finnian caught the hint. He dove onto the covers, his