Unlawful Shadows | +18

Chapter 26

Elowen's POV

The living room was quiet, a stark contrast to the whirlwind of emotions I'd experienced in the past few days. The gentle hum of the outside world filtered through the window, and I sank deeper into the plush couch, letting the cushions envelop me. My thoughts drifted, lingering on the moments I had shared with Lysander and Zephyr, both exhilarating and confusing.

I was still processing everything—their protectiveness, their desires, and the way they made me feel. Each brother had a unique intensity, and I found myself lost in their complexities, but it was the silence that brought me the most peace.

Zander entered the room, breaking my reverie. His presence filled the space, tall and confident. He always had a way of commanding attention without even trying. "Hey," he said, a playful smile dancing on his lips.

"Hey," I replied, returning his smile with a shy one of my own. He sauntered over and plopped down next to me, the couch sinking slightly under his weight.

"What are you doing all alone?" he asked, tilting his head, his expression curious. "You look like you're in another world."

"I was just thinking," I admitted, trying to sound casual. My heart raced slightly as I realized how close he was sitting.

"About what?" Zander's gaze was intense, as if he could see right through me. I fidgeted, unsure of how to answer.

"Just... everything, I guess," I replied, avoiding his eyes. I couldn't help but feel a bit shy under his scrutiny.

He chuckled softly, leaning back against the couch with a relaxed posture. "Thinking about how much fun you had with my brothers?"

I blushed at his teasing tone, and I felt my heart race at the mention of them. "I... um, I wouldn't say that."

"I happened to be looking out the window when yo were out on the porch with Zephyr and trust me, I enjoyed the view thoroughly," Zander continued, leaning in closer. His teasing made me squirm, but I couldn't deny the thrill it sent through me.

I brushed my hair behind my ear absentmindedly, a nervous habit that seemed to ignite something in Zander. His expression shifted, his eyes darkening as he focused on my movement. "You're not helping your case, you know," he said, his voice dropping to a low murmur.

I felt a shiver run down my spine at his tone, a mix of excitement and apprehension swirling within me. "I didn't mean to," I replied, my voice barely above a whisper.

"Didn't mean to what? Make me want you?" he asked, his gaze piercing into mine. I froze, the weight of his words hanging heavy in the air.

Before I could respond, Zander shifted closer, closing the gap between us. The warmth radiating from him was intoxicating, and I could feel the heat rising in my cheeks. "You're so innocent, Elowen," he murmured, his voice almost a growl. "It's cute."

My breath hitched as I felt his hand reach for mine, his fingers intertwining with mine. The simple touch sent a jolt of electricity through me, awakening desires I didn't fully understand. "Zander..." I started, but my voice trailed off as he leaned in, his lips hovering dangerously close to mine.

"I can't help myself," he whispered, his breath warm against my skin. I could see the intensity in his eyes, a burning desire that mirrored my own apprehension.

Just as I thought he would close the distance, he pulled back slightly, his gaze searching mine. "Do you want this, Elowen?" he asked, his voice steady yet laced with urgency.

I hesitated, my heart racing. Did I want this? The heat radiating from him was overwhelming, and every fiber of my being screamed for me to say yes. But the uncertainty held me back.