Page 182 of A Reign of Chromes & Shadows

“I’ll see you all on Velday! Goodbye for now!”

A chorus of goodbyes followed her as she walked away.

The café was a quaint little spot tucked between a florist and the old bookshop owned by Rain’s estranged aunt. The bookshop windows were boarded up, a large CLOSED sign hanging crookedly across the door.

A flicker of grief settled in Rain’s chest, for a family member he’d never truly known.

The café, however, was warm and inviting. The scent of roasted beans drifted out each time the door opened. Inside, the gentle clatter of crockery and the low hum of conversation wrapped around them like a soft blanket.

Emily led the way to a booth by the window, still clinging to Rain’s arm. Rogan went to order drinks with his usual easy charm.

Rain slid into the seat, grateful for the chance to relax. Out of habit, he scanned the room; every person, every flicker of energy, every potential threat. Only once he was satisfied did he pull his power back.

And that was when he felt Jay.

The familiar tug of warmth that was unmistakably him. Rain glanced across the table.

Jay was staring at him. Not subtly. Not accidentally. His sky-blue eyes were fixed on him with a curious, searching intensity; as though he were trying to read Rain’s soul.

Rain gave in before he could stop himself.

He reached with his power.

Emily nudged him, pulling his gaze away, but he kept his focus on Jay’s energy.

It washed over him like a warm hug; comforting, familiar, achingly gentle. For the first time since the breakup, it didn’t feel torturous to feel him like this.

Jay was confused.

Lost in thought.

Analysing his own emotions with adorable earnestness.

Rain bit his lower lip without meaning to.

Emily chuckled, still talking, and guilt snapped Rain back to her words. He had no idea what she’d been saying.

“…alike but also different, you know what I mean.”

Rain blinked.

“I guess,” he said, hoping it was the right answer.

Emily laughed, slapping his bicep. “Anyway, I’m sure you hear that all the time.”

Rain offered a polite smile, leaning back in the booth, arms folded. He was about to steer the conversation elsewhere when a sudden surge of desire hit him.

Sharp.

Hot.

Undeniable.

His gaze snapped to Jay.

Jay was staring at him again but this time, with open hunger. His eyes roamed Rain’s torso, lingering shamelessly.

For a moment, Jay looked completely lost in it; caught in longing so raw Rain felt it like a physical touch.