Shen's hands remained firm upon Kael's body, his burning golden eyes never wavering from him. They seared into him, relentless, as though the man wished to carve Kael's very soul open with his gaze.
Kael had been focused entirely on Valkar—his attention anchored to the dragon who battled like a storm incarnate. But the weight of that unblinking stare pressed upon him like chains, refusing to be ignored.
Finally, irritation prickled through him, sharp and undeniable. He lifted his gaze toward the man holding him.
The winged beast's eyes burned with a strange fire. Too steady. Too intent.
Kael's brows drew together, his voice low and tight.
"Why are you staring at me like that?"
Shen's lips curved slowly, as if he found Kael's anger amusing. With unhurried ease, he shifted Kael's position in his arms until he held him properly, his movements smooth as silk. Kael found himself cradled—princess-like—in the man's arms. The same way Valkar had carried him before.
