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“You’d never hurt me. I trust you,” Nell whispered.

“I couldn’t hurt you,” Maklr’s voice trembled. “But I will not do anything to you without your express permission.”

Tears filled Nell’s eyes. “I’m ready.”

“Are you?” Maklr freed his hand from Nell’s. “I’m going to move my hand,” he murmured. Nell’s breath hitched as his hand raised. “I’m not going to hurt you.”

“I know,” Nell breathed the words, her eyes locked on his hand.

Maklr raised his hand, inch by inch. “I’m going to touch your hair,” he said, his voice low.

“Okay.” Nell’s voice cracked, and Maklr held his hand back, still in her line of sight.

“Only if you’re sure.” His violet eyes bored into hers, purple hand shaking.

Nell exhaled. She leaned forward, pressing the side of her head against his hand. “Go ahead. I’m okay,” she whispered.

Maklr’s fingers stroked Nell’s hair without taking his eyes off her. “I want you to know I would never hurt you.” His touch remained feather light against her hair, allowing the silky strands to fall between his fingers. His claw snagged on a tiny knot, and Nell’s posture became rigid.

“It’s okay. I’m okay.” Nell pressed her head against his hand. “I know it was an accident. I like your touch.”

Maklr’s lips curled into a slight smile. “As long as you like it. I won’t touch you until you give me the go ahead.”

“Put your hand on my neck,” Nell said.

“No, I can’t,” Maklr protested.

“I need this. I need to know if I can handle it, and you’re the only one I trust.”

Maklr sighed. “Are you sure?”

Nell nodded and pressed Maklr’s hand against her throat. She adjusted his fingers behind her neck, underneath her hair. “I need your thumb under my chin.”

Maklr’s mouth opened. “Nell…” he trailed off.

“I need this,” she whispered. Slowly, his thumb ran up the hollow of her throat. Nell shivered. “Put pressure there.”

“Nell, no. Don’t push yourself.”

“I know you’ll stop if I need you to,” she whispered.

Maklr nodded. “Always.”

“Do it,” she commanded.

Maklr’s horns lengthened, and a low growl wrenched from his throat as his hand tightened around her neck.

A silent tear slid down Nell’s cheek. Her hands fisted at Maklr’s sleeve and he dropped his hand immediately, cupping her chin in his hand. He pressed his forehead against hers. “Nell, look at me.” Maklr’s voice was insistent. “Come back to me.” Maklr’s thumbs caressed her cheeks. “Nell, look at me. It’s me. It’s me, Maklr.” He didn’t take his eyes off her face. “Say my name. Say my name, Nell. Let me know you’re still with me.” His voice was breathless. “Come back to me. Don’t lose yourself in the memories. I’m here. I’m not going anywhere.”

“Maklr,” Nell whispered his name before pressing her lips against his. “You’re Maklr.” Tears streamed down her face, dampening his hands.

“I’m Maklr,” he agreed. “I’ve got you, Nell. I’ve got you.” He tilted her head toward his, capturing her lips in a gentle kiss while his thumbs wiped away her tears. “I’ve got you. You’re safe.”

“Hold me,” she whispered.

“You only have to ask.” Maklr cradled Nell’s shaking body against his. “Cry it out. I’m so proud of you.”

Nell wiped her nose with the back of her hand. “I’m a wimp. I couldn’t do it.”