The sound Graydon released held a lot in common with a snarl. "I'll be there momentarily."
The look he fixed on Kira nearly made her laugh. He reminded her of a child denied a treat, pouty and sulky. She smoothed a hand over his cheek, the twin feelings of regret and relief twisting her insides.
"Duty calls," she said.
It was a needed reminder. Graydon might be attracted to her and she to him, but he answered to a powerful master. One who would no doubt destroy Kira if all her secrets ever came to light.
"We're going to finish this one day," Graydon informed her.
"Promises, promises."
Graydon pushed the hair from her face, his gaze intent. "You'll see."
Kira unlocked her legs and dropped to her feet, the water rising to chest level.
She took the opportunity to duck under the waves so she didn't have to see Graydon go. The chilly embrace of the water dousing some of her passion and providing clarity.
Kira was last to reach the shore. She found Solal with his head bent toward Graydon as he relayed the message.
Graydon held up a hand, halting him as Kira lumbered out of the waves, feeling considerably less powerful and graceful than she had during their mock battle. She shivered as a breeze touched her, conscious of the cold in a way she hadn't been with Graydon's heat beside her.
"I look forward to tomorrow," Graydon said.
"What's tomorrow?"
His teeth flashed. "You'll see."
Graydon walked away, leaving her gaping after him.
"I'll see what? Graydon?"
A wave over his shoulder was his only answer as he headed toward a small opening in the cliff Kira hadn't seen before now.
That wasn't enigmatic or anything.
Kira caught Solal's stare, his expression disturbingly neutral. She scowled at him, not fooled. The amusement was there for someone who had spent any time with him.
Her scowl made his lips twitch.
Solal dipped his chin in a respectful nod as he finally followed his commander.
Finn's shadow detached from the cliff as he moved to stand beside her to watch Graydon and his oshota's retreat.
"I don't want to hear it," she finally said.
She was well aware this had been a serious error in judgment. Something about the combination of the moon and Graydon made her lose her head. It worked magic on her senses, luring her into situations that could only cause trouble in the long run.
"I haven't said anything," Finn said neutrally.
"You're thinking it. Loudly."
Kira sensed rather than saw his small smile. "Perhaps you're projecting."
Kira glanced at him. "Pretty sure I'm not."
If only she could believe it.
NINETEEN
