Chapter 97: Blood Ties

Zendedari woke with a start, a sharp pain shooting through his battered body, bringing him to full awareness. He cursed inwardly, frustrated with his weakened state. His body screamed with hunger, his senses dulled by dizziness and exhaustion. His eyes, black and fierce, immediately found Caitlin. She sat across the room, intently studying a notebook, a pencil held between her teeth. Her skin, pale and fragile, seemed almost translucent under the dim light of the room. The intense emotions that filled the air were clearly hers, but she showed no outward sign of acknowledging them. Her mind was engaged, focused on something beyond the present moment, yet Zendedari could feel her consciousness brushing against his. She was trying to sync with him, her mind vibrating with a need that resonated deep within him. But Caitlin was nothing if not disciplined. She brought herself under control, forcing her thoughts back to the task in front of her. Something stirred within him, a feeling he had