Evan was pretty sure his blood had turned to lava. Every inch of him burned, and even the faintest movement made his muscles seize in protest. His bones ached so deeply it felt like the pain had settled into the marrow itself. He’d been drifting in and out of consciousness for what felt like days, vaguely aware of soft voices around him and the constant warmth of something pressed against his chest.
He forced his eyes open, squinting against the harsh fluorescent lights. The scent of lilacs hit him, overwhelming and familiar. Kari’s hair brushed his chin, and he realized she was the warmth he’d felt, curled over his heart. Relief washed through him, dulling the worst of the pain. He turned his head slightly, pressing a weak kiss to the top of her head.
She stirred, stretching against him
