Astrid's POV
The crackling fire in Roshan’s private study cast long, dancing shadows across the room. The only sounds were the soft hiss of the burning logs and the quiet rhythm of our breathing. He had brought me here after the confrontation with Zane, after the cold, accusatory words had left me feeling raw and exposed. His touch, his presence, was a balm to my aching soul. His scent, a familiar mix of pine and damp earth, was a comforting blanket, a safe harbor in the storm that raged around us.
He sat on the plush rug before the fireplace, his broad shoulders a reassuring presence, and I was nestled between his legs, my back against his chest, wrapped in his arms. His chin rested gently on the top of my head, and his fingers, strong and calloused, idly stroked my arm. The silence str
