Althea stiffened at first, instinctively drawing in a sharp breath. The arms around her were strong, steady, unmistakably protective. Warmth seeped into her back, unfamiliar yet achingly comforting, as though her body recognized what her mind could not. A soft kiss brushed against her bare shoulder, then lingered at the curve of her neck. Her heart skipped, a startled flutter that sent warmth rushing through her veins. Tingling sensations spread across her skin, and she bit gently on her inner cheek to keep herself steady.For reasons she could not quite explain, she liked it. The realization alone made her face heat, warmth blooming into a shy crimson. Thankfully, he could not see her expression at all.Gavriel closed his eyes as he breathed her in, his forehead resting briefly against her damp hair. He had imagined this moment too many times, feared it even more. Having her awake again, warm and breathing in his arms, nearly broke him.“You feel the same,” he murmured, his voice lo
Last Updated : 2026-01-11 Read more