17

~Vaela

Groaning, I let my book topple to my lap, unbothered by the loss of my page placement.

"This book is going to make me fall asleep."

Hale seems reluctant to drag his attention from his own book. It’s a ritual, to sit with two chairs pulled up to the fire, indulging in quiet reading time together. We can read anywhere, and yet we have established silent agreement to be in each other’s company for it.

I watch Hale’s eyes scan the cover of the book as I pick it up again. "You haven't gotten to the good part, that's why."

"Is that right?” My eyes narrow.

Suddenly, my pages flutter wildly, until they still. Hale lowers his hand, magic ceasing. I note his smirk, as my attention drags down to the page he has intentionally guided me to.

A gasp get's caught in my throat as I skim over the writing.

His hands drag up my thighs, fingers winding through the lace band of my panties, drawing them down my legs, revealing my-

I look back up at Hale, whose smile suggests he's amused, although hi