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.

and he froze, eyes snapping open. Though he'd never been in such a situation before, being a normal man, he knew exactly what his

swift motion, he threw the covers off and sat up, startling

asked, turning her head to look at

that Finnian 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 something

she held onto her composure without a word, without even a twitch. She was

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

hint of his collarbone and firm chest, like

sensation intensify. She was so thirsty, desperate for

seemed to amplify it. Even though her gaze flickered nervously, Finnian caught the hint. He dove onto the covers, his eyes locking with Amara's. "You want