Page 6

Chapter 6

Elle

I open my eyes, and the first thought that hits me is how much better I feel. It's a stark contrast to the usual nausea that greets me upon waking.

My gaze sweeps across the room, taking in the sight of familiar faces surrounding me. A warmth spreads through my chest, I've never felt more loved.

Christopher lies next to me in the hospital bed and to my right, my parents rest on a blow-up mattress.

Mason is sprawled out in the recliner by the door. He's always the quiet, intense type, but when it comes to protecting those he cares about, he's on another level. Christopher gets worked up too, but Mason? He's practically feral if he thinks we're in danger.

I doubt Mason slept a wink last night. Honestly, none of us did, with nurses barging in every five minutes. But despite the crappy night, I feel so much better. I roll over, snuggling into Christopher and throwing one of my legs over his.

It still shocks me that someone tried to hurt me like this. Thank God for Konrad. He's always been there for us, making sure we're okay when we're sick. Literally saved my life this time.

I breathe in Christopher's scent, listening to the quiet breathing of my family around me. My eyes start to droop again, feeling warm and safe.

But I hear a nurse laugh loudly outside of my door, and I growl loudly at the interruption once again.

Christopher shifts under me and I look up to see his eyes open, looking toward the door, then he sits up a bit when he sees I’m awake too.

“How are you feeling?” he asks me softly, trying not wake anyone up.

“So much better,” I tell him, and he looks so happy to hear that.

Christopher’s heartbeat is a steady rhythm against my ear. I reach out to gently touch his face, feeling the rough stubble on his jaw. “Thank you for loving me.”

He kisses the top of my head softly, cupping his hand to the back of my neck, keeping me pressed against him. “Loving you is as easy as breathing.”

God, my heart.

A soft knock on the door breaks the silence, and Mason immediately tenses, sitting up.

It’s just a nurse, carrying a tray with my medication and breakfast. She offers a polite smile, unaware of the tension in the room, and moves to check on me.

“Good morning. How are we feeling today?” she asks, her tone professional but kind.

“Better,” I reply, simply watching her every move. I wish I didn’t have to be so scared but that’s my reality.

My parents stir from their bed. “What’s going on?” my mom asks and runs over to me, tripping over a blanket before righting herself. I try not to laugh at her hair sticking up on one side.

Konrad enters the room soon behind the nurse and looks at the medication the nurse is giving me to make sure it’s okay. “Okay, you can take all of these, they’re safe.” I notice that they’re all in sealed packaging.

I squeeze Christopher’s hand, seeking comfort in his presence. The nurse moves efficiently, checking the machines and noting down my vitals.

She hands me the food tray and asks gently, “Do you need anything else?”

I shake my head, managing a small smile. “No, thank you.”

She nods, giving me a reassuring pat on the shoulder before leaving the room. I take a deep breath, trying to steady my nerves once she leaves.

“I think we need to find a new doctor for you, a fresh start will be easier on you,” my mom suggests, and I have to agree.

Konrad checks my IV bag and looks at the monitor that is checking over the baby.

I’ve loved getting to sleep with her heartbeat in the background of the room.

“I was going to actually suggest someone,” Konrad agrees. “She is in her early twenties and she’s practically a genius. She’s working under some doctors here, but she’s great.”

I’m impressed by her already. “Okay, I’d like to meet her.

Feeling relieved to start over with someone new, my trust is lost in the previous doctor that I had when she didn’t seem to truly care how sick I was when we were right to be unsure.

Konrad smiles. “Well, she happens to be the daughter of Liam and Paisley. Remember Meadow?”

I gasp. “Oh my God, it’s been years, and I know she went away, but has it been that long?” I remember she was a few years older than Christopher, but no one ever saw her because she was obsessed with school.

Konrad laughs. “Like I said, she is a genius and she finished med school early.”

Mason tries to hide his reaction at hearing her name. He has had a crush on Meadow for years.

I look down at the tray the nurse brought me, unsure of it.

Christopher takes notice of my hesitation and grabs my fork, taking a bite out of everything, along with taking a drink of my orange juice just to be safe.

“I’m still not sure if I like Christopher lying in bed with my baby girl,” my dad grumbles under his breath, but from the happy look on his face I know he’s not being serious.

Christopher wraps his arms around me dramatically. “I’d like to see you try to keep me away,” he growls back half-heartedly, and I laugh at their antics.

Throughout the day, I have visitors to check in with me, meanwhile Christopher hasn’t left the room, to the point he leaves the door open when he goes to piss.

It’s around midday when there is a knock on the door, before a woman in a white coat walks in smiling.

My first thought is she’s young and, holy shit, she is beautiful. She has light brown hair with blonde highlights blended in, and large green eyes.

“Hi! I’m Dr. Beckham.” She smiles and it lights up her face, and I immediately feel comfortable around her. “Since we sort of know each other, call me Meadow.”

“It’s nice to see you again,” I tell her, and she shakes my hand then everyone else’s in the room before stopping before Mason, her eyes going wide.

He stands up, eyeing her from the tip of her toes to the top of her head, and boy is it intense. “It’s very nice to see you, Meadow.

His voice is very deep, gravelly, and it’s shocking when it comes out because he doesn’t speak very much.

Her face reddens slightly at his attention as he lifts her hand up to kiss the back of it. She clears her throat, her hand still in his. “It’s nice to meet you,” she almost stutters out before correcting herself.

I look around the room to see if the others are witnessing this, while Mason just stares at her intensely.

My mom is covering her mouth, trying not to laugh, my dad is grinning, and Christopher is chuckling under his breath.

Meadow finally slides her hand out from under his and turns to me, going back into professional mode. “Can I have the room empty with just our patient here? I’m going to exam her, if that’s okay with everyone?”

My dad and Mason leave the room in a rush, almost colliding with each other to race out the door.

I burst out laughing at their antics.

My mom and Christopher stay with me.

She gives me a soft look and takes my hand sweetly. I can see the resemblance between her and her mom now that she’s closer.

“I understand you’ve had a horrible ordeal, and I want to apologize for the things that’s happened. I hope I can help you feel better,” she says.

“Thank you for that. I’m feeling much better.” The weight of the world is slowly slipping off my shoulders now that things are looking up.

She pats my hand before letting me go and lifts her iPad to look over something. “I have gone over all of your tests and everything is much better, but I just want to physically examine you with your permission,” she asks.

I fall in love with her at her consideration. She is so sweet and I feel better knowing that our families have ties to each other’s. Her dad is Liam, who is a member of the Devil Souls MC. He is a very intimidating guy from what I remember, and her grandpa is the vice president.

“Sure.” I scooch down the bed so she has easier access and she pulls out the stirrups, lowering the bottom half of the bed.

I turn my head to the side so I’m looking at Christopher, not liking this part. He caresses the side of my face, running his thumb over my cheekbone.

A few minutes pass. “Everything looks amazing.” Meadow pulls my gown down and pulls my blanket, then fixes the bed back so I can relax. She rolls back in her chair. “We have a couple of options for you.” She lifts her tablet and adds in some information.“I do home visits, which is rare, I know, but I do. Homebirths are also an option, if that’s something you want to do. I have moved to the outskirts of town, so it’s easy to get to your place, if that’s what you want,” she offers.

I really love that idea. I’d feel so much safer at home considering someone is obviously trying to hurt me. “I would love to go home, if you could come to our place?” I’m so ready to get out of here and into my bed to actually sleep.

She smiles. “I can do that. I want to run another round of labs to be on the safe side while you’re still here. If it’s all good then I can send you home.”

“Sure, go ahead.” I lift my arm out for her. She takes my blood herself.

“I will personally handle this under the circumstances,” she reassures us, then leaves the room with the promise that she will be back soon.

Mason walks back in and lets out a deep breath. “I’m fucked.” He looks down the hallway, watching Meadow leave and standing there like a creeper.

We all burst out laughing. “We noticed when you almost swallowed your tongue, brother,” Christopher says, and we laugh louder.

“She is really pretty,” I add, smirking.

“She’s beautiful,” he corrects me.

“She is going to be over at the house later this evening if I get to leave. She does house calls.” I give him a heads-up.

I can see his mind is running a hundred miles a minute. “Do you care if I use your kitchen?” he asks.

“As long as you make me some food too,” I tell him.

He laughs. “Like I’d make food and not feed the pregnant person. I don’t want to die.”

An hour or so later, Meadow comes back smiling, “Your labs are so much better than they were yesterday! It’s safe for you to go home. I’m going to write a prescription for you to go straight to the pharmacy to collect it, and a list of some other basic things to keep on hand to help get your strength back up.”

Mom takes the prescription from her. Mason is staring at the back of her head, and I know she has to feel his eyes boring into her.

She clears her throat, stepping back, and pulls some cards out of her pocket. “I will be by later to check in with you. Here is my personal cell phone number if you need anything at all.” She hands us a card and Mason lifts his hand out and without thinking, she hands him one too.

Her eyes widen when she realizes before trying to jerk it back. He pulls harder, successfully taking it from her and tucking the card in his pocket. “I didn’t mean to,” she starts, and he looks away, ignoring her protests.

I cover my mouth, trying to control my laughter, my eyes watering from my efforts.

“Well, I will see you all later,” she tells us and leaves the room in a rush.

“You have flustered that poor girl, Mason. I can’t wait to tell Joslyn of your antics.” My mom takes out her phone, and I know she is off texting his mom and the other ole ladies.

There is nothing better than being home after being away, especially when I’m dressed in one of Christopher’s shirts and we are lying in bed watching movies.

My mom is running around the house, ensuring all the old meds have been thrown out and inspecting everything to make sure it’s okay. We’re all paranoid after everything.

I slide off the edge of the bed, my feet hitting the cool hardwood floor. "I'm going to take a long shower," I announce, grabbing some fresh clothes on my way to the bathroom.

Christopher's footsteps follow close behind. "Let me go with you," he says, his voice laced with concern. Before I can protest, he's slipping into the shower behind me, the glass door clicking shut.

The warm water cascades over us, steam rising and fogging the glass. I turn to face Christopher, pressing my chest against his. My arms wrap tightly around his waist. "I'm okay," I murmur, my words muffled against his skin.

He kisses the top of my head, tightening his arms like he’s afraid I’m going to be taken away. “I know. It was hard on me to see you like that.”

I sigh, leaning into Christopher's touch. "I hate that I've put everyone through so much stress lately. You've all been through enough drama because of me."

Christopher's hands pause in my hair. "Hey, none of that," he says firmly. "We're family. We stick together, no matter what."

I close my eyes, savoring the feeling of his fingers massaging my scalp. "I know, but still…"

"No buts," he interrupts, gently turning me to face him. "We love you. End of story."

I can't help but smile at his stubborn expression. "Okay, okay. Point taken."

He resumes washing me, his touch both comforting and electrifying. As he rinses the soap from my skin, I'm overwhelmed by a wave of emotion.

"You know," I say softly, "I really do love you. Like, a ridiculous amount."

Christopher grins, pressing a kiss to my forehead. "Good thing the feeling's mutual then, huh?"

In one swift motion, Christopher hoists me up, my legs instinctively wrapping around his waist. I let out a surprised yelp, clinging to him as water cascades over us.

Laughing, I kiss his cheek, tightening my grip. That's when I feel him hard against me, and suddenly, laughter gives way to desire. It takes every ounce of willpower not to sink down onto him right then and there.

"Christ," he growls as I roll my hips, creating delicious friction. "Baby, you're killing me."

He braces one hand against the shower wall, steadying us. His other hand slides down my back, gripping my ass.

“We need to wait and make sure it’s safe. We will ask the doctor when she’s here.”

I groan, resting my head on his shoulder. "I can still take care of you," he whispers, his lips brushing my cheek. "Just keep quiet. Your mom's downstairs."

He lifts me gently, sliding me along his length. The friction is maddening as he moves me up and down. My legs tremble. It's been too long since we've done this.

I come apart embarrassingly fast, biting my lip to stay silent. Christopher follows soon after, spilling onto my stomach with a muffled groan.

Panting, I lean against him. "Feeling better?" he asks with a smirk.

I laugh breathlessly. "Much. You?"

"Definitely," he chuckles, kissing my forehead.

Christopher sets me down gently, his release still warm on my skin. He runs his hand over my stomach, a possessive glint in his eye.

"Marking your territory?" I tease, watching his fingers trace patterns on my flesh.

He grins wickedly. "If I thought it'd work, I'd piss on you to keep other guys away."

I swat his chest, laughing. "You're ridiculous." But secretly, I love his possessive streak.

We rinse off quickly and scramble out of the shower, not wanting to raise suspicion. As we dress, I feel refreshed, both from washing off the hospital smell and our little rendezvous.

The aroma of Mason's cooking wafts up, making my stomach growl loudly. Christopher chuckles, patting my belly. "Let's go feed you two before you start gnawing on the furniture."

Christopher's phone chimes, and he glances at the screen. "Meadow's at the gate," he announces, pocketing the device.

As we descend the stairs, Mom's waiting at the bottom, her face lit up. "Oh, honey, you look so much better!" She wraps me in a tight hug, which I eagerly return.

"Mom, you're amazing," I murmur into her shoulder. "I hope I can be half the mother you are someday." Her eyes well up, and she squeezes me tighter.

Dad walks in, taking in the scene with a raised eyebrow. "Everything all right here?"

I break away from Mom and rush to him, throwing my arms around his neck. "Dad, thank you. For everything. I know I haven't made it easy."

He cups my face gently, his eyes soft. "Easy? You've been my greatest joy since the moment I laid eyes on you, kiddo."

"I love you, Daddy."

A smile spreads across his face. "Love you too, sweetheart."

His gaze shifts between Christopher and me, a hint of suspicion creeping in. "Now, why do you two look like you just stepped out of the shower together?"

Christopher clears his throat awkwardly, and I feel my cheeks heat up. Dad's eyes narrow, and I scramble for an explanation that doesn't involve shower shenanigans.

He flashes a cheeky grin that only serves to deepen Dad's scowl. "You're lucky your old man's who he is," Dad grumbles, his eyes narrowing. "Otherwise, we'd be having a very different conversation right now.

Mom sighs, shaking her head. "All right, that's enough. We need to pick up Lawson from football practice," she says, tugging on Dad's arm.

Dad shoots Christopher one last warning look before following Mom out. As soon as they're gone, I can't hold it in anymore. Mason's deep chuckle sets me off, and soon we're both laughing.

Christopher plops down on the couch beside me, still grinning. "You know, I can't even be mad at your dad," he admits. "He loves you, wants to protect you. We're having a baby girl and I'll probably be worse.”

The image of Christopher cradling our daughter, his tattooed arms a stark contrast to her tiny form, makes my heart swell. She's going to be one loved little girl.

I’m interrupted by the sound of tires on gravel. A white SUV pulls up outside the guest house, and I feel a jolt of excitement.

"Mason!" I hiss, trying not to shout. "She's here!"

Mason peeks his head out of the kitchen, a mischievous glint in his eye. "I'll hang back until your appointment's done. Then I'm making my move," he says with a wink before disappearing back into the kitchen.

A knock at the door signals Meadow's arrival. I open it to find her standing there, looking professional in her white coat and lugging a suitcase that seems to weigh a ton.

"Evening! How are you feeling?" she asks, her smile warm and genuine.

"Much better, thanks. Here, let's use the guest room downstairs. Save you from hauling that up the stairs," I offer, leading her down the hall.

As we enter, Meadow's eyes widen appreciatively. "Wow, your place is gorgeous," she comments, taking in the decor. I perch on the bed's edge while Christopher hovers nearby, watchful.

Meadow sets down her case, popping it open to reveal an impressive array of medical equipment. "You're looking so much better already," she observes, her tone pleased.

"I feel it," I admit, relief evident in my voice.

She beams. "I'm so glad to hear that."

Meadow runs through a thorough checkup, asking about symptoms, pain, and any concerns I have. Her professionalism is reassuring.

"Everything's looking great," she concludes. "Did you manage to get all your prescriptions filled?"

"Yep, all set," I confirm. Then, feeling my cheeks heat up, I blurt out, "Quick question. Is sex okay?"

Christopher barely stifles a laugh, and I feel my face burning. Meadow, to her credit, maintains her composure, though her eyes twinkle with amusement.

"Sex is absolutely fine," she assures me, her tone matter-of-fact.

Christopher throws me a wink, and I have to look away to keep from combusting on the spot.

"I'll be back to check on you in a couple of days," Meadow says, packing up. "Remember, call me if you need anything at all."

As we exit the bedroom, the mouthwatering aroma of Mason's cooking hits us full force. My stomach growls loudly in response. Christopher and I hang back, watching as Mason emerges from the kitchen like a man on a mission.

Meadow's eyes go wide as saucers as Mason approaches, his presence filling the room. "Hi, Meadow," he rumbles, his voice low and smooth as whiskey.

The effect on Meadow is immediate. Her hands flutter nervously to her hips, smoothing imaginary wrinkles as she visibly tries to collect herself. "Oh! Hi," she manages, her voice a mix of surprise and something that sounds suspiciously like interest.

Christopher pulls me close, his arm snug around my waist as we shamelessly eavesdrop on the unfolding scene. I can't help but grin, feeling like we're watching our favorite soap opera live.

Meadow glances back at us, her eyes wide with a mix of panic and amusement. I give her a reassuring smile and a subtle thumbs-up. Go get 'em, girl.

"Are you single?" Mason's voice is low and intense, his eyes locked on Meadow like she's the only person in the room.

Meadow's eyebrow arches, her father's feisty spirit shining through. "Why do you want to know?"

Mason's lips curl into a smirk. "Because I want you," he states bluntly. "And this dinner? It's just the start. I'm not stopping until you say yes."

Meadow's jaw drops, her face flushing bright red. For a moment, she's speechless, but then a small, intrigued smile plays on her lips.

Mason takes her hand, leading her toward the dining room. Meadow throws a mischievous glance over her shoulder at me. Mason turns back to us. "Your dinner's on the coffee table. The dining room's off-limits."

Curiosity gets the better of me, and I peek around the corner. The room's bathed in soft candlelight, with a beautifully set table for two.

"You did all this for me?" Meadow asks, clearly impressed.

"Let's eat," Mason says, guiding her to the table. As they disappear from view, I hear Meadow ask, "What if I'd said no?"

"I'd have kept asking," Mason replies matter-of-factly.

I bite back a laugh, mentally placing bets on how this date will unfold. Mason's cooking skills might just seal the deal.

We grab our plates and retreat to our bedroom, giving the lovebirds some space. Plus, I'm craving some alone time with Christopher.

The food looks amazing, some kind of chicken pasta dish with a side of garlic bread. Christopher grabs a beer while I stick to water. He fusses with my pillows, propping me up comfortably.

"What do you want to watch?" he asks, remote in hand.

Feeling a bit mischievous, I grin. " Pretty Woman sounds perfect."

To my surprise, he doesn't protest. He just queues up the movie and settles in next to me.

We eat in comfortable silence. I catch him glancing my way every so often, like he's making sure I haven't vanished.

"I'll take these down," he says, gathering our empty plates.

Alone, my mind wanders. Do I want to have sex? The answer's a resounding yes. After everything we've been through, I can't imagine anyone else by my side. He's my rock, my Christopher.

Sure, the start was rocky. But now? I wouldn't change a thing.

He returns, grinning from ear to ear. "They just left. Meadow is on the back of his bike."

"Good! I like her," I say, genuinely happy for Mason. He needs someone to crack that tough exterior.

Christopher heads to the closet, peeling off his shirt and tossing it aside. My breath catches. His body is a work of art, all defined muscle and smooth skin. Those broad shoulders, that narrow waist, those abs… It's almost unfair how good he looks.

His tattoos captivate me. Intricate designs adorn his arms, each with its own tale. A fierce dragon wraps around his left shoulder, eyes blazing. His back showcases a phoenix rising from the ashes, its wings spread wide. As I take him in, my heart swells with pride and love. This incredible man is mine.

The words leave my mouth without hesitation. "Make love to me, Christopher."

He nearly fumbles with his phone, caught off guard. His eyes meet mine, searching. "Are you sure?"

I lace our fingers together, my stomach fluttering. "Yes. I want you. This feels like my first time, because it's what really matters."

He kisses my forehead softly before revealing, "It's my first time too."

I pull back, stunned. "Really? You waited?"

"Why would I want anyone else?" he says simply.

My heart melts. I lift my arms and he pulls off my shirt, tossing it aside. His eyes roam over my black lace bra.

His calloused hand caresses my skin. "You're so beautiful," he murmurs. "I feel like I don't deserve to touch you."

"Touch me all you want," I breathe, pressing a kiss to his jaw. My hands explore his muscled back. I trace his strong jawline. "Let's make this night unforgettable," I whisper, voice shaky with anticipation.

He pulls me close, our foreheads touching. "It already is," he murmurs against my lips.

Our lips collide in a frenzy of passion. Clothes are shed with urgent desperation, both of us driven by an overwhelming need.

"I want you on my face," Christopher growls, his strong hands gripping my thighs. He lifts me effortlessly, but I hesitate, grabbing the headboard.

"What if I'm too heavy?" I ask, suddenly self-conscious.

He lets out a low chuckle. "Baby, trust me. You couldn't hurt me if you tried."

My nerves make my hands tremble, but the raw hunger in Christopher's eyes melts away any lingering doubts. His tattooed fingers brand into my hips, guiding me down. I straddle his face, my thighs on either side of his head.

His strong hands grip my ass, pulling me firmly against his mouth. The sensation is so intense, so all-consuming, that I have to bite my lip to keep from crying out. Every nerve in my body feels electrified, and I'm lost in a haze of pleasure.

My thighs quiver as I struggle to keep from collapsing onto him completely. I'm drenched, arousal running down my legs and coating his face. Far from deterring him, it only seems to fuel him.

Every inch of me is shaking, right down to my lips. But it's not from cold, I'm burning up, consumed by him. Christopher's relentless attention has set my body ablaze, and I'm powerless to do anything but surrender.

"Let go for me, angel," he growls, his voice vibrating against my most sensitive flesh. The sensation sends electricity through my body, making me shudder. I look down, meeting his intense gaze. The raw desire I see there nearly undoes me.

I press my forehead against the cool headboard, struggling to keep myself upright. Christopher senses my trembling and grips my hips firmly, supporting my weight. I feel suspended, helpless in the best way possible.

A sharp nip makes me cry out. "Oh God!" I don't care who hears, I'm too lost in the moment.

"That's it, sweetheart," Christopher murmurs, pulling me closer.

He doesn't relent, even as waves of pleasure crash over me. His fingers dig into my skin as he holds me steady, prolonging my high. "Good girl," he praises, and I clench involuntarily at his words.

When I can breathe again, Christopher shifts our bodies, settling between my legs. He cups my face gently, thumb tracing my lower lip. "You sure about this?" he asks softly, giving me one last chance to back out.

I lean in, kissing him tenderly. My heart feels so full it might burst. "More than anything," I whisper against his lips.

"Okay, angel," he smiles, resting his forehead against mine. I wrap my legs around his hips, pulling him closer. Our eyes lock, and I know there's no going back. Not that I'd want to.

Christopher's hardness presses against me, sending a shiver of anticipation through my body. Any lingering nerves fade away—this is my Christopher, my safe harbor.

I grip the back of his neck, nails digging into his skin as I guide him inside. There's a slight burn as my body adjusts, but the discomfort quickly gives way to intense pleasure as he fills me completely.

I gasp, arching my back as he pushes all the way in, hitting a spot that makes me see stars. His fingers find my clit, and the dual sensation is almost too much to bear.

"Christopher!" I cry out, beyond caring who might hear. My body stretches to accommodate him, the slight ache only amplifying my pleasure.

"Fuck, you feel amazing," he groans, his voice rough with desire.

I can only whimper in response, overwhelmed by the intensity of it all. This connection, this intimacy, it's everything I've been craving.

His lips crash against mine, his tongue exploring my mouth as I moan into the kiss. He moves inside me, setting my body on fire with desire.

Our bodies move in sync, the tension building with each thrust. I grip his hair, overwhelmed by the waves of pleasure.

"I love you," he murmurs against my lips.

"I love you too," I gasp between moans.

The world fades away until it's just us, lost in passion. I can feel him trembling, nearing the edge.

I arch my back, pressing closer as he drives deeper. His hand supports my lower back. I wrap my legs tighter around him, urging him on.

Our kisses grow frantic as we chase our release. The pressure builds low in my belly. His movements become more focused, more intense.

"Let go for me," he says, eyes locked on mine. "I want to see you come."

With a cry of his name, I shatter. He follows, burying his face in my neck as he finishes.

"I love you so much," I murmur, kissing his neck.

"Love you too," he replies, voice thick with emotion.

The weight of him on top of me, the warmth and safety I feel—it hits me how deeply I love this man. He's still inside me, a delicious ache setting in.

This is different.

I feel loved, and I felt it.

He lifts his head, his expression softer than I've ever seen. I cup his jaw, savoring the rough stubble that reminds me of how it felt between my thighs.

Without thinking, I clench around him. He lets out a strangled sound, and we lock eyes for a moment before dissolving into laughter.

"Careful," he chokes out, "I think you nearly snapped it off."

I clutch my chest in mock horror. "We can't have that! I've grown quite fond of Little Christopher."

"Little?" He raises an eyebrow, slowly withdrawing. I bite back a wince, not wanting him to worry.

"Fine, Big Christopher," I concede with a grin.

He snorts, torn between amusement and mortification. His cheeks flush as he fights to keep a straight face.

"Just let it out," I tell him, and he loses it, clutching his stomach as he howls with laughter.

As his mirth subsides, Christopher gazes at me with such tenderness it makes my chest ache. He brushes a stray hair from my face.

"You're incredible," he murmurs. "I've dreamed of this moment for so long."

Tears prick my eyes at the raw emotion in his voice. "Me too," I whisper.

He pulls me close, enveloping me in his strong arms. I rest my head on his chest, listening to his steady heartbeat as his fingers trace patterns on my skin.

"You okay?" he asks softly. "I didn't hurt you, did I?"

I shake my head against his chest. "No, you were perfect. I feel… cherished. Safe."

He kisses the top of my head. "Good. That's all I want."

In one fluid motion, he scoops me up. I cling to him eagerly as our lips meet, my body molding to his as he carries me to the bathroom.

He sets me gently in the empty tub before joining me, snuggling me into him. His legs on either side of mine, arms wrapping around me as his hands rest on my stomach.

Every touch sends shivers through me. I bask in the feeling of being completely enveloped by his love and protection.

I lay my hands over his, relishing the familiar comfort. My heart swells as I voice my thoughts. "This feels surreal," I murmur, unable to hide the emotion in my voice. "Like a dream come true."

He presses a soft kiss to my neck, making me shiver. "I'm fucking thrilled you're mine," he whispers against my skin. "I always knew we were meant to be. Not a single doubt."

In that moment, I feel utterly his.

I tilt my head back, meeting his gaze. "And I am yours," I say, my voice steady despite the intensity of my feelings. "I'd do anything for you. I may not be a fighter, but I'd claw the eyes out of anyone who tried to come between us," I declare, surprising even myself with the ferocity in my tone.

Christopher's eyes darken at my words, a primal hunger evident in his stare. He pulls me flush against him, his grip on my hips tightening possessively.

"Fuck, angel," he growls, his voice low and filled with heat. "You have no idea what it does to me, hearing you talk like that. My sweet girl with such a vicious streak."

He claims my mouth in a searing kiss, his tongue exploring, dominating. When he finally pulls back, we're both breathless.

"If anyone ever tried to hurt you," he says, his face deadly serious, "I'd tear them apart with my bare hands. They'd regret the day they were born."

His words send a shiver through me, a mix of fear and desire. The raw power emanating from him should terrify me, but instead, it only fuels the heat building between my thighs.

"I love it when you get all protective," I whisper, my voice husky. "Makes me feel safe, knowing you'd do anything for me."

I roll my hips against him, gasping as I feel his hardness press against me. He groans, fingers digging into my flesh as he holds me close.

"You drive me crazy," he rasps, nipping at my ear. "But we can't. You're too sore."

I want to argue, but deep down, I know he's right. We sink into the warm water, his arms around me as we catch our breaths.

His hands roam my body, from my stomach to my thighs and up my arms. The feeling of his touch on my skin is intoxicating.

His tattooed hands stand out against my pale skin. We sit in comfortable silence, savoring the moment.

As the water cools, we dry off and head to bed. The TV hums softly in the background. "Good night, angel," he murmurs, pulling me close. I yawn and snuggle into him, relishing his warmth. "I love you."