Page 23 of Protected By the Wolven

“That’s beautiful,” I whisper, picturing it in my mind’s eye.

“It was, so I’m told.” Lash’s voice is wistful. “At least until the Rift tore us from our home and brought us here.”

As I squeeze his hand, my heart aches for him, for all the Others who were ripped away from everything they knew. “I’m so sorry, Lash. I can’t imagine how difficult that must have been.”

He turns to me, his expression softening. “I don’t remember it. Earth is all I know. Besides, if it hadn’t happened, I wouldn’t be here now. With you. And that’s something I’ll always be grateful for.”

Emotion wells in my throat as our gazes collide. I have to blink back sudden tears. How is it possible that this beautiful, gentle soul has come into my life after all the darkness I’ve endured?

“I’m grateful too,” I manage, my voice rough. “More than you know.”

Lash cups my face in his hands, his thumb brushing away a single tear.

Then he’s kissing me, soft and sweet, and all the wonders of the museum fade away. Because none of them can compare to the wonder of being here, in this moment, with him.

When we finally come up for air, I’m smiling so hard my cheeks hurt. “Okay, mister. What other marvels do you have to show me?”

Lash grins, lacing his fingers with mine. “Oh, we’re just getting started. Wait until you see…” He pauses to read a sign pointing to a door in the rear, “Garden of Eden on Wheels: Collections From Los Angeles Area Mobile Home Parks.”

I laugh, letting him lead me deeper into the wild and wacky world of the Museum of Jurassic Technology, and feeling so, so lucky to be right where I am, at this moment, with this amazing male.

Chapter Twenty-One

Lash

After the bizarre wonderland of the Museum of Jurassic Technology, I’m itching to see more of the city I’ve grown up in, yet never been allowed to explore. And what better place to start than the iconic Griffith Observatory? With no news from Samantha, and my leave from the Warriors about to come to an end, today is as good a day as any for our outing.

“Dress warm,” I tell her with a wink. “We’re going stargazing tonight.”

Zoya’s eyes light up. “Stargazing? In the middle of the city?”

“Trust me, beautiful. I’ve got a few tricks up my sleeve.”

It’s becoming harder to be around her, to breathe her intoxicating scent, to be so close to her curvy body, and to keep my hands off her. I’m glad we’re getting out of the apartment tonight.

One good thing, at least I’ve won the fight on who gets the bed. She’s reluctantly agreed to take turns in the bedroom. I don’t mind sleeping on the couch and would gladly do it every night, but she won’t hear of it. Losing on that front is offset by the way I can luxuriate in Zoya’s scent in the sheets when it’s my turn in the bed.

As the sun dips below the horizon, we borrow Marissa’s car and make our way to the observatory. Zoya’s hand is clasped firmly in mine as we walk to the entrance. I’m in disguise, of course—hoodie pulled up and sunglasses on, even though the sky is rapidly darkening.

“Trying out for the next spy thriller, are we?” Zoya teases, pointing playfully at my shades.

I strike a mysterious pose, my lips twitching. “I could tell you my secret identity, but then I’d have to kiss you.”

“Well, in that case…” She leans in close, her breath ghosting over my lips. “Spill.”

Not wanting to call extra attention to ourselves, I give her a quick peck on the lips, though I’d like to devour her mouth for hours. Instead, our laughter echoes through the parking lot as we climb the steps to the observatory. The building is a magnificent sight,all Art Déco curves and soaring domes, perched high above the glittering city below.

“Wow,” Zoya breathes, her eyes wide. “It’s like something out of a movie.”

“Right? You half expect to see James Dean brooding in a corner.”

We wander through the exhibits, marveling at the intricate models of the solar system and the massive telescope pointing toward the heavens. But as incredible as the displays are, I find myself far more captivated by the wonder on Zoya’s face, the way her fingers brush reverently over the glass cases.

“Come on,” I murmur, slipping my arm around her waist. “Let’s explore what’s up there.”

I lead her up a winding staircase to the observatory’s rooftop terrace. The view is breathtaking—a 360-degree panorama of Los Angeles sprawled out before us, the city lights twinkling like fallen stars.

“Lash,” Zoya gasps. “It’s… magnificent.”

---