CHAPTER 31

Eva threw her arms around Zayne the moment he opened his eyes. She sobbed as she held on to him, burying her face in the curve of his neck. Her tears soaked into his clothes. "You’re awake," she whispered. "Zayne… thank the Moon Goddess—you’re really awake." Zayne’s body was still too weak, but the soft squeeze of his fingers around her waist told her he was present, conscious, and feeling her closeness. His breathing was shallow, but steady now. His eyelids fluttered weakly, but when he finally managed to open them fully, he looked at her. Zayne slowly lifted a shaky hand and cupped her cheek with effort. His thumb brushed across her skin. His lips parted, like he wanted to speak, but no words came. Just that look—a look filled with love and adoration. It was a look of recognition. Of longing. Of love. Eva smiled through her tears, leaning into his palm. "You scared me," she whispered. “You scared all of us.” Eva’s parents, just behind her, both clasped their hands together pr