In a protective gesture, he pulls me closer and wraps his arm around my waist. “Squeeze me as tight as you can,” he requests as he massages my neck with one hand and presses gentle kisses against my temple. “It’s over now. We’re safe.”
Oil and dust mix with the lingering scent of gunpowder on Kai’s clothes. His warm breath against my skin sends shivers down my spine, but his hug is my sanctuary in this moment of chaos.
“You’ve got your hands full with me,” he murmurs into my hair, a tremor betraying his tough exterior starting to crumble. “Screwed-up criminal and an even worse patient.”
I let out a small laugh, breaking the tension. “Well, I’ve always had a thing for villains.” I look into his eyes and kiss him on the lips.