Page 50 of Surrendered to Mate

Faye moans louder, almost a cry of pain from how needy she feels and I wrap my hands around her thighs. "I know, sweetheart." I kiss the inside of one leg. "I'm going to make it better." I kiss the other, the scene of her arousal so strong it's unmistakable.

Leaning in, I press a soft kiss to her center, my tongue flicking out, tasting her. A moan escapes her, low and guttural, urging me on. I delve deeper, my mouth and tongue exploring every inch of her, drawing out gasps and whimpers that send shocks of pleasure straight to my groin. I can feel her tension building, her body coiling tighter with every stroke, every lick.

"Cassius," she breathes, her voice a ragged whisper. Hearing my name on her lips, filled with such need and desperation, it's intoxicating. I redouble my efforts, my hands gripping her tighter, holding her in place as I devour her.

Her orgasm hits her hard, her body convulsing, her cries echoing off the cave walls. I ride out her pleasure, my mouth still on her, my touch gentle now, coaxing her down from her high. Her body goes limp, her breathing evening out as she comes down from her climax.

I press one last kiss to her center before moving up her body, gathering her into my arms. She's boneless, her eyes heavy-lidded and sated. Her body is trembling from the venom and orgasm, and I hope I've done enough to override her pain.

"Sleep, sweetheart," I murmur, brushing a soft kiss against her forehead.

Her body melts into mine as she drifts off into a fitful sleep. I watch her, my heart pounding in my chest, a mix of possessiveness and tenderness coursing through me.

Mine, I think, holding her tighter. Mine to protect, mine to cherish.

And I won't ever let harm come near her again.

If she can just make it through this.

24

FAYE

Iwake with a gasp, my senses overwhelmed. The world around me explodes into vivid detail - every grain of dirt on the cave floor, every whisper of air currents. My throat burns with an intense, primal thirst.

"Faye?" Cassius's voice rings clear, each syllable distinct. "How are you feeling?"

I try to respond, but only manage a rasp. My hand flies to my throat, panic rising.

"Shh, it's okay," Cassius soothes, his cool hand on my arm. "I'll help you feed soon. Just breathe."

I nod, forcing myself to focus. As I do, I become aware of my body in a whole new way. Strength courses through my limbs. I flex my fingers, marveling at how responsive they feel.

Slowly, I push myself up. The movement is effortless, almost too quick. I blink, adjusting to this new speed.

"Easy," Cassius murmurs. "It takes some getting used to."

I turn to look at him properly and gasp. His face is a masterpiece of light and shadow, every detail crisp and clear. But there's something else - angry red marks marring his pale skin, a slight hitch in his breathing.

"You're hurt," I rasp, reaching out to touch his cheek.

He catches my hand, a small smile playing on his lips. "Nothing that won't heal. How about you? Any pain?"

I shake my head, still marveling at how different everything feels. "Just... thirsty. So thirsty."

Cassius nods, understanding in his eyes. "Let's take care of that." His eyes drift over me, and for one brief second, I can see the relief there. "I'm so glad you are okay."

Warmth pours through my chest, the only thing pushing through my thirst. He guides me to my feet, and I'm struck by how light I feel. Each movement is precise, controlled. I take a step, then another, marveling at the grace I never possessed before.

Cassius leads me into the forest, his hand steady on my back. The night air is alive with scents and sounds I've never noticed before. I can hear the heartbeats of small creatures scurrying through the underbrush, smell the rich earth beneath our feet.

"Focus," Cassius murmurs. "What do you hear?"

I close my eyes, letting my new senses guide me. There - a steady thump-thump to our left. My mouth waters.

"I hear... something big. A dae?"

Cassius nods, a hint of pride in his eyes. "Good. Now, let's hunt."

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