Aurora's POV
"Then let me help," I whispered, sliding closer until my hip was pressed against his side. "Let me stay and take care of you. Just let me be here."
I felt him stiffen under my touch. For a terrifying second, I wondered if he could smell it. Could he smell the lingering scent of the club? Could he smell the dark, spicy musk of Raymond that I had scrubbed so hard to remove?
"You're so persistent," he muttered, finally turning over.
He moved slowly, pulling the duvet down just enough to look at me. His eyes were bloodshot, the sea blue dull and tired. He looked at me for a long time, his gaze searching my face, and for a heartbeat, I was sure he saw the lie. I was sure he saw the purple mark hidden just inches away beneath my collar.
He reached out a hand, his fingers grazing my cheek, and I had to force myself not to flinch. His touch was usually so grounding, but now it felt... different.
