The infirmary room was quiet except for her breath and the soft flutter of the curtains.
Unable to meet Lucian's eyes, Ruelle started to pull away but his fingers came up to her chin, holding her there gently, as if he were not ready to let her go just yet.
"Look at me, Ruelle," Lucian murmured, his voice quiet and controlled. When she looked up, she met his wine-red eyes, which could drown a person with his undivided attention. "Do not mistake that for a lesson. I kissed you because I wanted to and I still want to."
Her thoughts scattered at his words, and she realised she had been staring at him for far too long. She quickly lowered her eyes, her fingers tightening in her lap before she gave a small nod.
"Good girl," he said softly.
When he finally let go of her chin, his fingers brushed lightly against her jaw as they withdrew, and the small touch made her heart stumble again.
