Chapter 0325

I stir awake slowly, enveloped in warmth and the rich aroma of sandalwood. It's been ages since I've felt this utterly at peace.

Reality filters in gradually. First realization - I'm completely bare beneath the sheets. Second - there's a muscular arm possessively wrapped around my waist, a large hand cupping my breast. Third - the hard, unmistakable evidence of Victor's arousal pressing against my backside.

I attempt to wriggle free, but his grip tightens instantly. His lips brush my shoulder blade, sending shivers down my spine.

"Stay," he murmurs, his voice gravelly with sleep. "Five more minutes."

"Victor." My protest comes out embarrassingly breathless.

"Mmm." He nuzzles closer, trailing kisses up the column of my neck. My skin erupts in goosebumps everywhere his lips touch.

"I'm not wearing anything," I point out needlessly.

"You were dead asleep when I finished showering," he rumbles against my skin. "Didn't have the heart to wake you." His breath fans across my ear, making me shiver.

"You're naked too."

"Sweetheart," he chuckles darkly, "after what we did last night, there's not an inch of you I haven't worshipped. And I grew up among shifters - nudity doesn't faze me."

Heat floods my cheeks. What felt natural in the darkness now feels scandalous in daylight.

His teeth graze my shoulder playfully. "I can smell your embarrassment, darling. We're mates. The bond may not be sealed yet, but you and your wolf are already drawn to me and Louis. This is how the Moon Goddess intended it."

"I should shower," I say quickly. "Don't we have a bus to catch?"

He lifts his head, golden eyes searching mine. "You sure you're up for traveling today?"

I meet his gaze over my shoulder. The concern in his expression makes my heart flutter. "Actually, I feel amazing," I admit.

His smug grin tells me everything. The arrogant bastard knows exactly how good he made me feel. And much as I hate to admit it, my body feels deliciously loose and satisfied.

I lean up to peck his lips, but he captures my mouth in a searing kiss that leaves me dizzy. His tongue tangles with mine as I melt against him, a soft moan escaping my throat.

When he finally pulls away, he bumps his nose against mine affectionately. "Go shower. I'll grab breakfast and check the bus times."

Sliding out of bed, I feel his heated gaze tracking my every move. I pause at the bathroom door, glancing back. "What?"

Propped on one elbow with the sheet barely covering his hips, his eyes make a slow, appreciative journey down my body. "Just memorizing the view," he purrs.

I throw him a smirk over my shoulder, putting extra sway in my hips as I enter the bathroom. His answering wolf whistle makes me laugh aloud.

The knowledge that I can affect a man like Victor so profoundly is intoxicating.

When I emerge from the shower, the bed is empty. I dress quickly, and moments later Victor returns laden with food - egg sandwiches, strong coffee, and several bottles of water.

"Drink up," he orders, setting everything down. "Take whatever you want. Wasn't sure how you take your coffee, so I got cream and sugar." He dumps a handful of condiments and napkins onto the table between us.