Chapter 208: Stolen Kiss

Jaxon's voice, soft but alert, startled him. Orion jerked back so quickly he nearly toppled over, but Jaxon's reflexes were faster. Strong hands caught him by the arms, steadying him before he could hit the ground.

"Hey, are you alright?" Jaxon asked, his voice laced with concern.

Orion's heart hammered in his chest as he awkwardly nodded. "Y-Yeah, I'm fine. Just… lost my balance."

Jaxon didn't let go immediately, his hands firm on Orion's arms as his gaze searched his face. The intensity of Jaxon's eyes made Orion feel like he was unraveling. The warmth of Jaxon's grip seeped through him, grounding him and making him feel… exposed.

The air in the room seemed to grow heavy. Orion's gaze flickered to Jaxon's lips, and he swallowed hard, suddenly hyperaware of how close they were. Jaxon must have noticed, too, because his brows furrowed slightly, his eyes softening.