Chapter 88: In His Arms
Naomi was fully aware it was the middle of the night, but despite that, she couldn’t figure out why she wasn’t feeling sleepy. She shifted slightly in her position, trying to get comfortable, but the restlessness within her refused to settle. Zylan’s eyes were closed, though his breathing remained steady, rhythmic, and calm. Naomi wasn’t sure if he was asleep or simply trying to drift off. It was a strange feeling, knowing he was right beside her, but also unsure of his exact state.
And then, as her gaze wandered, something caught her attention—his face. She had seen him countless times before, but tonight, in the dim light, she noticed things she hadn’t quite taken in. From the side, his sharp jawline was more prominent than usual, his long lashes fluttering lightly with each breath he took. The lashes were so beautifully dark and thick that she couldn’t help but admire them, as odd as it might seem. The way they framed his eyes made his face seem even more striking. His nose, perfectly straight and defined, only added to his otherworldly beauty. Everything about him screamed perfection—his features, his skin tone, the way he seemed to glow in the moonlight. Even his hair, dark and effortlessly glossy, seemed to have its own aura, surpassing any model’s appearance Naomi had ever seen.
If anyone had asked her, she would’ve told them that this—this man lying next to her—was the most handsome person in the world. The mere thought of being this close to him made her pulse quicken, and she fought to push aside the fluttering in her chest.
Just then, Zylan spoke, his voice soft and low yet deep. "Eaglet, sleep it’s late."
Naomi pouted, her lips curling in amusement as she saw his eyes flicker open, his gaze meeting hers, though his words still lingered in the air. "How can I sleep when such a gorgeous being is right beside me?" she teased, her voice playful, the words flowing effortlessly from her lips.
Zylan cleared his throat, his body shifting slightly as he turned to the side. Naomi’s eyes caught the faintest hint of pink blooming on his ear. Was he blushing? The thought made her heart skip a beat. Zylan, the stoic and commanding figure she’d come to know, was flustered? She couldn’t suppress her grin. Her playful remarks had apparently left an impact on him, and she was struck with a strange warmth in her chest. The way he looked at her, even now, seemed different—softer somehow. Was he truly that affected by her words?
He spoke again, his voice quieter now, almost like a whisper, "Naomi, don’t be naughty. Now sleep."
Naomi’s lips curled into an even wider grin, her voice slow and teasing as she responded, "I will... but promise you’ll stay till I wake up."
Zylan shook his head, a small but genuine smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. The sight of it made Naomi’s heart flutter, and she felt a warmth spread through her, more intense than any physical sensation. "I will."