Page 29 of Across the Crimson Sands

Fleeing and fighting were off the table, so fucking would have to do.

I leaned in close, my lips nearly brushing Rokan’s ear. “Pick a hotel. Any hotel.”

His golden eyes flashed with hunger as he scanned the bustling spaceport. Without a word, he gripped my arm and steered me towards the exit. The cacophony of languages and whirring machinery faded as we emerged onto the street.

Rokan’s pace was relentless as we wove through the crowded sidewalk. I struggled to keep up, my shorter human legs no match for his Vinduthi stride.

“Slow down,” I hissed. “Unless you’re planning to drag me through the streets.”

He shot me a look over his shoulder, the hunger in those predatory eyes making desire pool low in my belly. “You started this game. It’s time to find out what you’ve unleashed.”

We rounded a corner and came face-to-face with a towering hotel, its sleek facade glowing with holographic advertisements. Rokan yanked me through the revolving door so fast I nearly tripped.

A bored-looking Krelaxian clerk barely glanced up as Rokan approached the front desk.

“One room,” he growled, slapping down his credit chip. “Now.”

The clerk’s reptilian eyes widened slightly at Rokan’s tone. “Of course, sir. Top floor suite is available. Excellent view of the-”

“We don’t need a view,” I cut in, flashing what I hoped was a seductive smile. “Just privacy.”

A hint of understanding flickered across the clerk’s scaly features. He processed the payment quickly and handed over an access card. “Enjoy your stay.”

The elevator ride was excruciating. Rokan stood rigidly in one corner while I fidgeted in the other, sneaking glances at his chiseled profile, listening to my heartbeat get louder and louder in my ears.

When the doors finally slid open, Rokan seized my wrist and practically dragged me down the hallway. He fumbled with the key card, his usual grace faltering as he shoved open the door.

We tumbled into the darkened room, and I barely had time to register the plush carpet under my feet before Rokan’s mouth was on mine. His kiss was fierce, almost punishing, as he backed me against the wall. I groaned as his sharp canines grazed my lower lip.

My hands roamed over the planes of his muscular chest, tracing the patterns etched into his gray skin. He growled low in his throat, the sound vibrating through me.

I broke away, panting. “Wait.”

Rokan’s eyes narrowed, a low growl rumbling in his chest. “No more games, Arilee.”

“I need a shower,” I demanded, my voice breathy. “I’m covered in grime.”

His grip on my waist tightened. “I’m not letting you out of my sight.”

A thrill shot through me at his possessive tone. I trailed my fingers down his arm, feeling the corded muscle beneath. “Good.”

Rokan’s eyes widened fractionally, surprise and lust warring on his features. In one fluid motion, he swept me off my feet, my surprised yelp echoing through the room as he cradled me against his chest, my arms instinctively wrapping around his neck.

“What are you doing?”

He kicked open the bathroom door, revealing a spacious shower enclosure. “Following orders.”

I licked my lips as he set me down and we stood facing each other, the air thick with anticipation. Rokan’s golden eyes roamed over me hungrily.

“Well?” I arched an eyebrow. “Are you going to help me out of these clothes, or what?”

A wicked grin spread across his face, exposing those dangerous fangs. “With pleasure.”

ROKAN

Ikicked the bathroom door shut behind us, my gaze never leaving Arilee. She stood before me, defiance and desire radiating from her. My blood surged, pulse quickening as I drank in every curve and line of her body.

“Last chance to back out,” I growled, giving her one final opportunity to change her mind.

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