KAEL’S P.O.V
"I, Axella, accept your…" Her words hung in the air, unfinished as I let out an embarrassing shriek. What the hell was she doing? She'd just forgiven me, hadn't she? She'd said she'd let go of the past. So why, then, was she going through with this rejection ritual? Panic clawed at my throat, constricting my airways. My mind raced, searching for a solution, but coming up blank. The last time I'd tried physical contact, she'd nearly slapped me. What would happen if I tried it again?
Before I could overthink it further, my instincts took over. In one swift movement, I scooped her into my arms, pressing my hand firmly over her mouth. She muffled a startled cry against my palm, her body tensing in protest.
"Hmmph! Kuueelle…" she mumbled, the sound distorted by my hand. There wa
