Ethereal Burn

Beautiful

I quietly debated back and forth if I should attempt to go back to sleep till the sun rises or wake Killian. The truth was I didn't feel as if I could sleep, and the longer I gazed at him, the more my mind raced with thoughts that ended with me in his arms.

A part of me was embarrassed for the direction my unladylike thoughts continued to go on their own, yet like an addiction of sorts, I didn't really want to stop my mind from such thoughts. Would it be entirely selfish to wake him from his sleep?

On a worrisome note, Why wasn't he sleeping beside me on the bed? Why was he asleep in a chair of all things? The black couch was just at the foot of the bed, if he did not wish to lay beside me why hadn't he chosen the next possible place to rest comfortably. I did not understand how he could possibly be comfortable in that position in a wooden chair, it bothered me.

Even as my mind raced I felt this strong urge to see my favorite color of emerald green gazing at me. He truly had been blessed with remarkable eyes, a color so rare. And I was only human after all, these feelings were overwhelming, doing things to my mind, my body. I could not deny what I desired, I'd be a fool to even try.

With a driving curiosity and a need to feel him, I gently pulled my hand out from within his grasp. My fingertips softly moved his subtle waves from his face, allowing me to gaze upon his handsome features. This side was flawless with his masculine beauty that I couldn't get enough of. Even with the burns scarring the opposite side, he was utterly handsome to me. Perhaps I was biased because Killian has lowered his guard enough for me to see what's within, and that is something I hold dear to my heart.

I knew without a doubt, If he had never been burned he would surely have had every maiden lined up in hopes to be the lucky one to marry him. A thought that made me frown, I did not like the idea of someone else beside Killian.

Despite his terrifying reputation as our kingdoms leading war hero, commander for war of the imperial army, stained with the blood of many as the imperial beast. I felt giddy inside knowing he was all mine, knowing I was the only one who could admire him while he sleeps.

My fingers unconsciously caressed the hair along his jawline. It was so defined and sharp, his beard doing nothing to hide that feature and I was glad for it. I wondered how it would feel to press my lips against his perfectly trimmed beard along that jawline. Would it tickle my lips as I imagine it would? My heartbeat increased its pace as my body warmed at the thought. These unladylike thoughts were so addicting, each one a new discovery of possibilities. If only I was brave enough to try each one and satisfy my curiosity.

Killian's body twitched, stopping the movements of my fingers. I selfishly wanted to awaken him, but now I couldn't help but think maybe it wasn't such a good idea. What if he was exhausted and wanted to continue sleeping? Would I be able to handle the rejection.

My heart froze at the idea of Killian being upset with me.

Like a startled beast his roughened hand grabbed my wrist painfully. Squeezing with such strength that I knew I'd bruise, a small whimper left my lips. He raised his head so suddenly it caused me to flinch, his body tense as he blinked the sleep away from his eyes. I gasped at the look on his face, It was so animalistic reminding me of the wolves he could control, as if he was ready to kill at that moment. It shined in his eyes that spoke volumes of what he was capable of. Killian could easily end me with little effort, but even so...

"Killian"... my soft voice rang out so loud in the silence, hoping I could reach him through his muddled senses from such a deep sleep.

The version of me who had first arrived to the east would have been frightened to tears by the sight of him right now. But the me now, held no fear towards him, it was quite the opposite in fact. I yearned for him. Despite the pulsing pain within my wrist from his strong grip, I smiled.