I stiffened, instinctively shutting my laptop and stepping back to create space between us. “Where’s Kaia?”
He sighed, weariness etched into his face. “Kaia was hospitalized today. The doctors want to keep her under observation.”
His expression was a portrait of exhaustion, a man utterly drained by worry. It was clear where his heart lay; from the moment Kaia returned, she had been his priority. The call she made as soon as she landed had tethered him to her side.
When Kael found out she had lost her sight, he rushed to her like a madman, his urgency leaving no room for explanation. Without a word to me, he brought her home, making a decision that turned my world upside down.
At first, I had no idea who Kaia was to him. Thinking practically, I suggested she stay at a hotel and hire a caregiver for her needs.
Kael frowned, his objection sharp and immediate. “Skylar, I can’t trust anyone else to look after her. Let Kaia stay here for now.” His voice softened as he added, “Before she left, she was my… best friend. I promised her I’d always be there for her.”
Helping a friend shouldn’t have been an issue, but Kael’s protectiveness, his tone, and the look in his eyes felt all too peculiar.