Shattered Windows, Broken Locks

Kalt I say goodbye to my weakness, So long to the regret, and now I see the world through diamond eyes.     He didn’t hold onto her that time. He could have...there were a few seconds between the sharp breath and her launching herself out of the bed where he could have wrapped his arm tightly around her and held her, but he chose not to. She wasn’t ready for that. She hadn’t had that in two years, and there was a good chance she would feel too trapped if he was to hold her that way. That was the last thing she needed.     Instead, Kalt watched her, a knot tightening strongly in his stomach, as she practically fell against the wall. He propped himself up on his elbow, watching with an intense gaze. In Northaven, he had seen a few of the night terrors that sent her running, seen her cave in on herself either alone or with someone who didn’t know how to pull her out of it before it consumed her completely. He had to bite down a rise of anger at that thought.     Ashetta tried for the window, but there was no way she was getting out that way. Not only was it locked, but he had reinforced the lock with magic. His heart raced, but he remained quiet, seeing the large wolf dart away in place of the girl. As soon as she disappeared from the room, Kalt whipped the blanket away and got to his feet, briskly walking out of the room with his brows drawn together.     When he emerged into the room she was in, he frowned at the sight of her sinking to the floor with her hands in her hair and her eyes closed tightly. Silent steps brought him over to her, and he knelt beside her. Kalt didn’t wait for her to realize he was there or even who he was before he wrapped his arms around her and pulled her into his body. He didn’t let go. She could try to escape if she wanted, but she wouldn't be strong enough to break his hold on her.     He held her against his scarred chest, one hand burying into her raven locks, as he angled himself just enough to be able to hold her gaze if she opened her eyes. ”Ashe, listen to me,” he commanded with a softly firm voice. ”It isn’t real. You’re safe. I promise.”     His hand left her hair, and he took hold of one of her hands, forcing her palm to lay flat over his heart, his own hand pressed over hers. ”Hold onto me, Ashe. Listen to my voice.” A tether…that’s what she needed. Something to hold onto and to hold her, to pull her back to what was real. ”You’re safe.”