Azrayel shifted back then, just enough that the sudden absence of his breath at her ear felt almost jarring.
"I'll teach you," he said, voice returning to something steadier, more neutral, as if nothing had just passed between them.
Metheea nodded, blinking once, twice, as if her body needed the reminder to catch up with the moment. "Alright."
"I'll match your speed on that day," he continued calmly. "But you'll need to run fast."
She nodded again, too quickly, words momentarily failing her.
"I want to see you ride first."
Another nod. Automatic. Obedient before she could stop herself.
But then she realized something and turned her head slightly, brows drawing together. "You want me to ride… like this?" she asked.
He hadn't dismounted.
"With you right here?" she added, unable to keep the note of disbelief from her voice.
"Of course," Azrayel answered, as if there had never been another option.
The word made her pause. Of course. As though this was obvious. Natural.
