Their kiss broke with a gasp.
Rain still fell hard around them, but they didn't feel cold. Serah's heart thundered in her chest. Her eyes searched Thorn's face, half-expecting him to disappear again. But this time, he stayed.
"You're soaking wet," he said, voice rough. "You can't stay out here."
"I don't care," Serah whispered. "As long as I'm with you."
He stared at her for a moment, his jaw tight, chest rising and falling fast. She didn't understand what kind of man he was—or what kind of power he held—but something in her soul told her she could trust him.
Thorn took a breath and finally gave in. "Come with me."
He turned and led her deeper into the jungle. The path was narrow, almost invisible, but he moved through it like he was one with the forest. Serah followed without hesitation.
After a few minutes, they reached a hidden rock formation covered with vines. Thorn moved aside a thick curtain of moss, revealing a narrow entrance. He ducked and entered.
Serah followed, her breath catching in her throat when she stepped inside.
It was a cave—but not just any cave.
Inside was a warm, dry space lit by dim lanterns made of glowing stones. Animal skins lined the walls, and there was a small bed made from woven grass and soft furs in the corner. It felt ancient and alive.
"This is where I live," Thorn said, walking to the fire pit in the center. "You'll be safe here."
Serah looked around in wonder. "It's beautiful…"
"It's hidden," Thorn said simply. "That's what matters."
He pulled off the belt of weapons from his waist, tossing it aside. His body shimmered with water, muscles glistening under the soft glow of firelight.
Serah couldn't stop staring.
Thorn noticed—and for the first time, he let out a small, amused breath. "You're not very subtle, soldier."
She blushed and looked away, but he stepped closer.
"You came all this way for a stranger," he said, voice deep and husky. "Why?"
Serah raised her eyes to his. "Because when I looked into your eyes… I didn't see a monster. I saw a man who saved my life. And I haven't been able to stop thinking about you since."
There was a beat of silence.
Then Thorn reached out, brushing a wet strand of hair from her cheek. His fingers were rough, but his touch was gentle.
"I've never let anyone in here before," he said softly.
"Then let me be the first," Serah whispered.
---
The air changed.
Their lips met again—but this time, it wasn't hurried or stolen. It was slow, deliberate, and filled with hunger.
Thorn lifted her gently, carrying her to the soft bed of furs. Rain still tapped against the stone walls outside, but in here, it was warm.
Serah's fingers explored his back, feeling the raised points where the thorns hid beneath his skin. They pulsed faintly, as if sensing her touch.
"Does it hurt?" she asked breathlessly.
"Not with you," Thorn replied.
Their clothes came off slowly, each piece falling to the floor as they explored each other's bodies. Her curves fit perfectly against him, and his strength made her feel safe in a way she'd never known before.
When he entered her, it was with reverence.
Soft moans filled the cave, their bodies moving in rhythm—wild and gentle, savage and sweet. Each touch burned, each kiss deepened the bond between them. They weren't just two people seeking comfort.
They were two souls colliding in the heart of the jungle.
Hours passed like seconds.
And when they finally lay wrapped in each other's arms, Serah whispered against his chest, "What are you really, Thorn?"
He stared at the stone ceiling, his voice distant. "A curse. A secret. A weapon."
"No," she said, tracing his chest with her finger. "You're more than that."
He looked down at her, and for the first time in years, Thorn smiled.