Chapter 254: Morning
Liora had fallen asleep in his arms—quietly, deeply, without nightmares to drag her under.
And Xu Kai hadn’t let go.
Even long after her breathing steadied, he continued to hold her close, his gaze fixed on her peaceful face like he was afraid she might disappear. His mind was still racing, his pulse still fast, but his hands never wavered. They stayed steady, wrapping around her with a gentleness that no one had ever taught him, but one he always gave to her.
She’s back. My Liora.
The thought repeated in his mind like a prayer.
The same girl who once chased him through the academy courtyard just to throw a bottle at his head.
The one who used to steal his field rations when she thought he wasn’t looking.
The only one who ever smiled at him like he was human. Not a weapon. Not a rank. Just... him.
And now, somehow, she was here in his arms.
Her breath brushed lightly against his throat, her hand curled gently over his chest. Even in sleep, she leaned into him like some part of her still remembered him—if not with her mind, then with something deeper.
Without even thinking, he leaned forward and brushed the softest kiss against her lips.
A whisper. Nothing more. But it was enough to make his heart twist with everything he hadn’t been able to say.