Chapter 42

Jovie finds herself, half-dressed and asleep, standing in Acker and Hallis’s room. Hallis senses something but cannot see her; Acker reacts on instinct when Jovie touches him, pinning her before recognizing her presence. They confirm Jovie is sleep-projecting through their bond, visible and tangible to Acker but not to Hallis.

Noise from across the hall reveals Beau drinking and unraveling from the strain of her magic and heightened emotions. Hallis gently confronts and comforts Beau, choosing to stay with her through the night. Acker leads Jovie to the other room, uneasy but protective, and prepares to sleep on the floor.

Jovie admits proximity eases the bond’s tension and asks Acker to share the bed. Their banter turns sharp when Acker claims their match makes their future a foregone conclusion, and Jovie pushes back, wanting to be courted. Acker bristles, citing his sacrifices, then softens, urging her to sleep.

They analyze the bond: Jovie’s avoidance of sleep began after Acker closed his mind, suggesting the bond seeks the path of least resistance—her side. The implication unsettles Jovie, who realizes her resistance may be provoking stronger manifestations.

Jovie then deliberately pushes an image and sensation into Acker’s mind, proving she can breach his defenses from her side. Desire surfaces between them, but Acker teases that the bond knows what she wants. Jovie turns away, and Acker settles behind her, holding her for warmth and comfort. The tension eases, and Jovie finally drifts to sleep.