Page 91 of First Offense

I buried my face in her neck, claiming her in my own way, pledging to never take it further than this moment, and allowing us both to revel in this sensual peace.

For today.

For right now.

Nothing more.

Nothing less.

Just this and all the unspoken words between us. The knowledge that we could never have more. The understanding of our shared torment. The solace of each other’s touch.

I would forever want her.

But I would never be good enough.

A fate I accepted long ago.

A fate I despised now.

A fate I might one day choose to ignore. But not today.

Novak returned in just a towel, his damp hair falling into his eyes as he rounded the bed to look down at us.

He said nothing and everything with a glance.Some rules are worth breaking,he was saying with his eyes.

As are some oaths, I returned with my own eyes.

Indeed, he seemed to say as he settled into the bed on the other side of her, his wing spreading to touch us both.Indeed.

24

Novak

Beautiful,I thought, watching Auric and Layla sleep.

He had his arm around her again, similar to how I’d found him earlier after my shower. Only this time, he’d curled himself around Layla while she slept. Almost as if his body had decided it was safe to touch her now without his mind’s permission.

She snuggled back into him as well, her face void of the lines that typically troubled her at night. I’d often wondered what nightmares plagued her. Or if it was just the stress of our situation. But now, she seemed rather relaxed. A testament to our evening.

We’d eaten another fulfilling meal. Then we’d discussed a few ideas for escape, mostly involving the portals—which was Auric’s idea more than mine.

I’d sent Clyde to inform Zian via Raven. For whatever reason, the Blaze wouldn’t talk to my cousin. So he spoke to his mate instead. Something about powers and respect. I hadn’t asked him to elaborate because I didn’t really care.

However, as Clyde hadn’t returned yet, I imagined he was still trying to find a way to tunnel into their room. The rock here was much thicker than at Nightmare Penitentiary. He probably wouldn’t return until the morning.

Which gave me plenty of time to continue worshipping the sight before me.

Such strength and beauty. So regal, too.

I reached out to cup her face, my thumb drawing a dangerous path along her lower lip. She sighed in response, her mouth parting in an unspoken invitation.

I wouldn’t accept it.

Not now.

But I had every intention of tasting her very soon.

I slowly withdrew my touch, then smiled when her fingers slid into my feathers. She often did this while she slept, her palm seeking the comfort of something soft. Auric always shifted away when she touched him.