Third person POV
The pang of rejection that lanced through her chest was so sharp it startled her. She looked away quickly, blinking hard. But it was too late.
Vaden caught the wave of sadness and doubt that rolled off her in thick, suffocating waves, and it hit him like a physical blow. His brows knitted together, a fierce growl rising in his throat. He crossed the room in three long strides, his hand reaching out before she could think to retreat.
“Sofia,” he said quickly, his voice softer now, but laced with urgency. “Are you all right? Are you feeling unwell? Did someone do something to you?” His hand enveloped hers, and the instant their skin touched, a cascade of sparks danced up her arm.
Her breath hitched again, and her wide blue eyes darted to his. “No—no, I’m fine. I just—”
