Kira made no move to take over, knowing Graydon needed this.
His hands slowed as he reached the top clasp.
“Graydon?” Kira asked in question when he didn’t move for a long second.
Graydon closed his arms around her shoulders, pressing her back to his front in a hug. He buried his head in the crook of her shoulder.
Kira clasped his wrist, not resisting as he simply held her. They didn’t speak, allowing the moments to flit past. Each of their presences acted as a balm against the close call they’d had.
They could have lost each other.
It was horrifying to think it could be that easy.
If Joule had been a little slower with the ki shield or Kira had landed wrong when Jarek’s attack threw her into the ship, that would have been the end.
No more them. No more Kira.
“I couldn’t do anything,” Graydon whispered against her shoulder as his grip tightened.
Kira made no attempt to shrug off his hold, needing the comfort as much as he did.
Sometimes the depth of emotion she felt for him frightened her. The knowledge that she was purposely leaving herself vulnerable where he was concerned.
Kira dropped a kiss onto his muscular forearm. “How bad is this?”
Graydon nuzzled her shoulder one more time before his arms loosened and he took a step back. “I’m not going to lie. The situation is delicate.”
Kira bent and swiped her belt off the ground, clasping it around her waist as she turned toward him.
“Furthermore, my authority is limited.” There was a self-deprecating look on Graydon’s face as if the admission stung.
It made her wonder what part of this situation she wasn’t understanding.
Kira’s eyes narrowed. “There’s something you’re hiding from me.”
Graydon touched his chest in mock hurt before flashing a smile that made her stomach tremble. “Cheva nier, you know me so well.”
Kira’s glance was wry. “That’s what happens when you make a practice of studying someone and their habits.”
A hint of playfulness entered Graydon’s expression. “I didn’t realize you were so fascinated with me.”
“I wouldn’t let it go to your head,” Kira advised. “I study everyone who might become an issue.”
“I find the fact you consider me dangerous enough to be wary of highly flattering.”
Kira scowled. “Who said anything about me being wary?”
A teasing look settled on Graydon’s face. “You would only take precautions if you thought I was a threat. I’m gratified to know I’ve made such a good impression.”
Kira stared at Graydon like she thought he’d lost his mind. “Most people would feel sad to know their lover considered them dangerous.”
Graydon leaned forward. “Those people are not Tuann.”
Kira placed one finger on his chest and pushed him away. “I think another sparring session is in order.”
Maybe it would remind him of how painful such a mindset could be.
Graydon’s eyes went half-lidded with desire. “I would enjoy that.”
