“That’s it,” he encouraged as I rocked against his hand. “Show me. Let me see you fall apart.”

The first peak caught me by surprise, pleasure crashing through me in waves. But he didn’t stop, drawing out every sensation until I was trembling in his arms.

“Please,” I begged, though I hardly knew what I was asking for. “Tharon, I need...”

“What do you need?” His voice had gone rough with desire. “Tell me.”

“You. Inside me. Now.”

His control snapped. In one fluid motion, he flipped me astride his hips. His hands spanned my waist, steadying me as I sank down onto him. The stretch burned sweetly, my body welcoming him like coming home.

The sensation of him filling me sent sparks racing through every nerve. I braced my hands on his chest, his skin burning hot beneath my palms.

“Perfect,” he growled, his eyes darkening with desire. “You feel perfect.”

I rolled my hips experimentally, drawing a deep rumble from his chest. His fingers flexed on my hips, encouraging the movement without controlling it. Letting me set the pace.

Something fierce and possessive filled me at the way he watched - like I was the most precious thing he'd ever seen. Like he'd tear apart anyone who tried to take me from him. A rush of heat spread through my core at the thought. “Mine,” I whispered, dragging my nails down his chest.

His beast’s purr deepened. “Yes. Always yours.”

I moved faster, chasing the building pleasure. His hands slid to my hips, supporting but not directing. Letting me take what Ineeded. One thumb traced circles against sensitive skin, making me gasp.

“That’s it,” he encouraged. “Take your pleasure. Show me how much you want this.”

Stars burst behind my eyes as another peak crashed through me. But this time he moved with me, his own release following close behind. His eyes blazed as he pulled me down for a searing kiss.

I collapsed against his chest, boneless and sated. His arms came around me, holding me close as our breathing slowly steadied. His heart thundered under my ear, gradually returning to its normal rhythm.

“Are you alright?” he murmured against my hair.

“Mmm.” I kissed his chest, right over his racing heart. “Perfect.”

His chuckle vibrated through me. “You’re going to be the death of me, little mate.”

“You love it.” I propped my chin on his chest to look at him.

His expression softened. One hand came up to trace my cheek. “I do. More than anything.”

The raw honesty in his voice made my chest tight. I turned my face into his palm, pressing a kiss there. “I love you too.”

His beast's purr deepened at the words. Without warning, he moved swiftly, pinning me beneath him. “Show me again?”

Warmth grew inside me at his tone. “Yes.”

Dawn found us tangled in the sheets, my body pleasantly sore. Tharon’s arm was a warm weight across my waist, his breath steady against my neck. Outside our window, birdsong heralded the approaching day.

I stretched carefully, not wanting to wake him yet. His grip tightened automatically, drawing me closer against his chest. Even in sleep, he was protective.

Memories of the night before sent heat rushing to my cheeks. We’d barely made it to the bed after the bath, unable to keep our hands off each other. Every touch had felt like coming home, like pieces clicking into place.

His breathing changed subtly, telling me he was waking. His nose pressed against my throat, inhaling deeply.

“Good morning,” I murmured.

His answering growl vibrated through my back. “Very good morning.” He nuzzled my neck. “How do you feel?”

“Wonderful.” I turned in his arms to face him. “Though I might need help getting down the stairs.”