Chapter 114: The Space Between Us
Mallory:
The hallway was dimly lit and quiet as I made my way back to my room after bidding my friends ’good nights’.
Jasper was still in conversation with Instructor Oscar and Corey when we returned from the walk and headed to elevators.
I watched them for several minutes across the dining room, trying to read the stern lines of my mate’s face. They were discussing something serious, perhaps trip logistics or training protocols, but all I could think about was the fact that we were going to sleep in the same room tonight.
In the same bed.
My heart refused to stop hammering in my chest ever since that realization sunk in for the first time.
This wasn’t the same as sharing a room at the Academy with friends. It wasn’t like stealing glances. It was him. My mate. Jasper. And tonight, there was going to be no interruptions. No distractions. Just us.
Just me and the man who had kissed me earlier that day like I was something precious.
That kiss...
My lips tingled just thinking about it. The feel of his hand around my waist. The heat in his eyes right before his mouth met mine. It wasn’t rushed or hesitant like the first time - back when he dropped me at the Academy and I took the lead to make our first kiss happen. But that kiss was cautious, hesitant, unsure.
But earlier today?