An assassination attempt on Adrian came during a routine healing session.
A vampire with a concealed weapon lunged at Adrian. Kieran intercepted, but not before the attacker's knife grazed Adrian's side—a wound that healed instantly but still hurt.
Kieran's rage was immediate and terrifying. He destroyed the attacker in seconds, then turned to Adrian with blazing red eyes.
"You're hurt," Kieran said, his voice shaking.
"It's already healed—"
"You were hurt!" Kieran pulled Adrian close, his hands running over him frantically. "Someone tried to kill you. In our sanctuary. In the place we built to be safe."
"Kieran, I'm fine—"
"No. No, you're not fine. You could have died." Kieran's grip tightened. "I need to confirm you're alive. Need to feel you."
He practically dragged Adrian to their private quarters. The moment the door closed, Kieran was on him with desperate intensity.
"Need you," Kieran said, his hands already removing Adrian's clothes. "Need to feel you alive under me."
"Then take me," Adrian said, understanding. "Confirm I'm here."
Kieran prepared Adrian quickly, his movements efficient despite his emotional state. When he entered, it was deep and claiming, both of them groaning.
"You're alive," Kieran said, his pace frantic. "You're here, you're safe, you're mine."
"I'm alive," Adrian confirmed. "I'm here. I'm yours."
They moved together with desperate need, both reaffirming that they'd survived. When they came, it was intense and emotional, Kieran's fangs in Adrian's throat, drinking deeply as if to confirm Adrian's life force.
After, Kieran held Adrian like he might disappear.
"I can't lose you," Kieran whispered. "I survived a thousand years waiting for you. I can't survive losing you now."
"You won't lose me. I'm careful. I'm strong. And I have you protecting me."
"Always. I'll always protect you."
They made love twice more that night, each time Kieran confirming Adrian was alive, was whole, was his.