“Racing up the steps toward the library as dawn broke the sky, his heart thundered as loud as his footsteps echoed on the stone floor in the wide, empty halls. Barreling through the doors the moment he reached the top landing, Kris gasped, ready for the worst, yet only found darkness meeting him aside the soft glow of the hearth.
Julian stood apart from where he’d been sitting earlier, the curtains already drawn across the large windows. Kris’ heart sank as at last he spotted what he had also feared. Upon his right arm, Julian bore a horrendous burn. He’d been too late.
Coming up to his master, Kris gently took up that very hand, once smooth, now marred by the sun’s harsh rays. Falling to his knee, Kris bowed his head and lay a tender kiss upon Julian’s knuckle, apologizing deeply for his transgression.”

Writing and artwork by the lovely and talented Stefany! ^_^