The moment the word "Fine" left Tharion's lips, Thalina's entire body jolted.
Then, without warning—
She launched herself off his lap.
"Great! I'll go get my basket ready!" she chirped, spinning toward the door so fast that her blue hair whipped across his face.
Tharion blinked.
Wait.
What?
His hands, which had been gripping her waist so tightly just seconds ago, now clutched at empty air.
His chest still heaved from the heated exchange, his body still burned—and she was already running?
Thalina, oblivious to his inner turmoil, was halfway to the door, her light steps hurried.
Tharion watched in disbelief as she yanked the curtain aside.
"Thanks, Tharion! You're the best!" she tossed over her shoulder before vanishing.
The door shut behind her.
Silence.
Tharion sat frozen, processing.
One heartbeat.
Two.
Then, realization slammed into him.
That little—
She used me.
She seduced him, melted him down, turned him into a fool—and then bolted.
For a freaking herb.
