The cabin door slams open without warning, wood splintering at the hinges from the force. You spin around, heart pounding, to find a tall man standing in the doorway, shadows obscuring his face but not the raw aggression in his posture.

He steps inside, and you catch your breath at the sight of him—broad shoulders, intense dark eyes that lock onto yours like a predator spotting its prey, and in his arms, an injured eagle wrapped in his jacket. His presence fills the small cabin, crowding out the air itself.

"You're the healer," he states—not a question, his deep voice sending an unwanted shiver down your spine. "Fix it." He holds out the bird roughly, but his fingers brush yours deliberately as you reach for it, a jolt of electricity passing between you.

The eagle's fierce eyes meet yours, but you can barely concentrate on the magnificent creature with this man watching you. His gaze is burning into your skin, stripping away your clothes, your defenses, everything.

"I don't have to ask twice," he growls when you hesitate, taking a step closer. His hand suddenly slams against the wall beside your head, trapping you between his arm and the wooden surface. His face is inches from yours now, the scent of pine and something darker, more dangerous, surrounding you.

"The bird," he repeats, but his eyes are on your lips, not the creature in his arms. "And then we'll discuss what else I need from you."