Callista’s POV

He rushed forward, his embrace almost choking the air out of me. The familiar scent of pine and woodsmoke surrounded me, a scent that had watched out for me during the just-concluded battle; maybe it was then that the connection surged back. I couldn't say, but it felt good to be back home and to be in his arms again.

He pulled away, his gaze still locked on mine. But then, his eyes traveled past me and landed on Jessica. The smile on his face dissipated, replaced by a frown etched with confusion.

His brow furrowed at her as if trying to understand something. "Who is this?" he...