Sandy's POV
Zayden had abandoned me in his quarters, but this time he made certain I wouldn't slip away. The door was locked tight, trapping me inside his private domain like a caged bird.
I had wandered the space restlessly, testing every possible escape route, but found none. Eventually, exhaustion forced me onto his bed, surrounded by sheets that carried his distinct masculine scent. The smell made my stomach churn.
Still, the cold was unbearable, and I had little choice but to burrow under the covers.
Sleep claimed me despite my racing thoughts, though it brought no peace. I tossed and turned until a peculiar noise jerked me back to consciousness. A heavy, rhythmic pounding echoed from somewhere beyond the room.
My pulse quickened as I bolted upright, automatically pulling the bedding against my body. The flimsy nightgown I wore had twisted around my legs, exposing far too much skin. I yanked the fabric down while straining to identify the source of the disturbance.
