Chapter 137: Silent Rebellion

Caitlin felt the warmth of Zendedari’s skin beneath her fingertips as she traced the outline of his jaw. His eyes were closed, his chest rising and falling in rhythmic breaths. She could feel the weight of his thoughts, the tension gnawing at him from the inside out, through their shared bond. She could sense his discomfort in every fiber of his being, an unspoken plea for her presence. "You hate being alone," she whispered, her voice barely audible over the soft rustle of leaves outside their secluded cabin. The word "hate" is too mild, his voice reverberated in her mind, dry and laced with dark humor. I cannot breathe when you're not near me. Caitlin’s heart ached at his admission. She stroked his hair, letting the silky strands slip through her fingers. "I didn’t realize how terrible it was for you. I’m sorry if I’ve been insensitive, Zen. I didn’t mean to be. I just… I plan things, try to think ahead." She hesitated, feeling his instant resistance rise as he tapped into her thou