Kelvin's POV

Everyone rushed toward Noleen, including me. I carefully placed a hand on his shoulder, both to steady myself and to comfort him.

"Rest," I said, my voice calm yet firm.

Noleen's eyes fluttered briefly before closing as he nodded faintly. He slipped back into unconsciousness, his breathing steadying.

Across the room, Maria let out a soft sigh. But it wasn't relief I saw in her expression-there was something heavier, more guarded.

She avoided my eyes, but I caught a glimpse of unease in her gaze. Was she afraid of me? She had reason to be.

Earlier, she had kissed him. I hadn't missed the calculated boldness behind that...