Chapter 2039

Without another word, he pulled her into his arms and bent down, pressing a firm kiss to her lips—swift and unapologetic, a punishment sealed in silence. Their eyes met. Just as the golden light began to envelop them both, he leaned in once more, intent on deepening the kiss, claiming it anew with unmistakable purpose. Just as the moment was beginning to deepen, the courtyard gate burst open with a loud bang. Kai came striding in, voice full of excitement as he shouted, "Shannon! Word is that the enrollment portal for mystic schools is nearly overloaded! Pretty sure I had something to do with that!" He barreled into the courtyard, only to freeze mid-step when his eyes landed on Shannon and Benjamin standing beneath the maple tree, clearly closer than casual. The air tightened. Shannon, ever composed, calmly stepped back, putting a bit of space between herself and Benjamin. Kai's gaze shifted and met Benjamin's, who looked back with cool, dark intensity. Instant regret filled hi