Page 113 of Lost Paradise

Her eyes widen with a mix of surprise and pleasure, a soft gasp escaping her lips as she feels the intensity of my release. I watch as her expression transforms from anticipation to satisfaction, her own breath quickening with arousal. She leans forward, pressing her forehead against mine, holding me close as we both revel in the aftermath of our shared passion.

The sounds of the jungle continue around us, but at this moment, only the two of us are entwined in the profound intimacy of our connection. As we catch our breaths, I whisper hoarsely against her lips, "I love you," the words are a declaration of the depth of my feelings.

Eve smiles tenderly, brushing her lips against mine in a gentle kiss. "I love you too," she murmurs, her voice filled with warmth and contentment.

We remain tangled together, hearts beating in sync.

I’m never letting this wildcat go, not after experiencing this bond, for she has sunk her claws deep into my soul, marking me as hers for eternity. Our love is a pact sealed in blood and passion. We are bound to each other.

She is my wildcat, my eternal muse.

Chapter 35

After clearing up dinner,we gather once more around the crackling fire, its warmth embracing us in the cool evening air that suddenly hits the island—a welcome change from the humid nights we’ve been having.

As predicted, Astro appeared just as we started the grill, bringing with him a massive fish, which he already gutted and cleaned. I think it was his peace offering as he handed it directly to me without words.

Right now, the tension from earlier hangs between us, but no one mentions Astro’s previous outburst. Instead, there’s a silent agreement to find solace in the simplicity of this moment. Around us, the jungle murmurs with its nighttime chorus of insects and distant calls of nocturnal creatures.

Jack and Astro sit together, surrounded by the flickering glow of our small fire. The rest of us quietly observe as Jack, with a steady hand and a look of deep concentration, prepares his makeshift tattooing tools—a sharpened bone and a mixture of crushed berries and charcoal.

“Where did you find that bone? There aren’t any mammals on the island.” Byron asks.

But I have a feeling I know where my dark lover chipped it from, and the shady smirk he gives confirms it.

“No, you did not!” Zane exclaims, realizing it too.

“Where?” Foster asks, and it’s probably best that our Alpha never finds out what these two have been tampering with.

"You ready for this, Astro?" Jack asks, his voice low but confident. He isn’t going to tell Foster and I think it’s best.

Astro nods, his expression a mix of anticipation and determination. "Readyas I'll ever be."

Jack begins by marking the outline of the design on Astro's forearm—a swirling pattern that represents their bond and the journey they had shared. He works meticulously, the bone making precise incisions in Astro's skin. Astro winces occasionally, but his gaze remains fixed on Jack's movements, trusting in his skill and the symbolism of the tattoo.

As Jack finishes the outline, he mixes the crushed berries with black soot to create a deep, dark ink. Carefully, he fills in the lines. The scent of berries combined with the faint smoke of the fire infuses the air around us.

"There," Jack says finally, wiping away excess ink with a damp cloth we brought back from our trip. "All done."

Astro examines the tattoo with awe, running his fingers lightly over the fresh design. "It's perfect, Jack. Thank you."

Jack smiles warmly, his eyes reflecting satisfaction. "Now, it's your turn."

Astro nods and takes a deep breath. He retrieves a small tube made from hollowed-out bamboo, filled with squid ink—a deep, rich black that shimmers in the firelight. He picks up a sharpened bamboo stick to use as his tool, its tip carved into a fine point.

With practiced hands, Astro begins to sketch a design on Jack's upper arm. He says it’s a tribal symbol of guidance and wisdom, one he had designed for himself and had it tattooed on his ribs a while back.

I watch on with interest as the squid ink flows smoothly from the bamboo stick, creating intricate lines and patterns. Jack sits quietly, feeling the coolness of the ink against his skin and the gentle pressure of Astro's touch.

As Astro works, the fire crackles softly, casting dancing shadows around them. The process is slow, but Astro works with precision and care, ensuring the design is clear and meaningful.

"There," he says finally, stepping back to admire his handiwork. "It's done."

Jack studies the tattoo, his expression thoughtful. The squid ink has dried to a deep, glossy sheen, contrasting starkly against his skin. "It's perfect, Astro," he says softly, meeting his gaze with gratitude.

We all sit together in silence for a moment. The guys admire their new ink in the glowing firelight, the weight of their latest tattoos marking not just their skin but a deeper connection between them—a bond forged through shared experiences and mutual respect. Outsideour camp, the jungle continues its nocturnal symphony, unaware of the quiet moment of friendship unfolding within our area.

Astro breaks the quietness of our group with a suggestion. "Maybe we should share our special talents," he says, his voice softer than usual.

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