Page 48 of The Wolf's Plus-Size Bride

He collapses on top of me, and I wrap my arms and legs around him, holding him close. We stay like that for a few minutes, our hearts pounding and our bodies entwined.

Finally, he rolls off of me and pulls me into his arms, cradling me against his chest. I rest my head on his shoulder and listen to the sound of his heartbeat, strong and steady.

I’m not sure what to say. There are so many emotions running through me, and I don’t know how to process them. I’m holding my breath, waiting for Reiner to change his mind now that I’ve given myself to him. I want to enjoy this moment, to bask in the afterglow, but I can’t. I’m too scared.

Who’s to say that next week, he won’t decide he doesn’t want me again? Who’s to say that tomorrow, he won’t wake up and realize he’s only settling for me?

I just don’t think my heart could take it.

Chapter 17 - Reiner

I could stay like this forever, wrapped up in her arms, breathing in her scent. The sunlight streaming through the window is warm on my skin, and I can hear birds chirping outside. It’s a perfect morning, and I don’t want it to end.

Jane stirs beside me, her eyes fluttering open. She smiles at me, and my heart skips a beat.

“Good morning,” I murmur, leaning down to press a kiss to her forehead.

“You’re still here,” she says, her voice soft.

“Of course,” I say in surprise. “Where else would I be?”

She shrugs, and I can see the uncertainty in her eyes. At the sight, I make a silent promise to myself to do everything I can to erase that look for good. I could tell her she has nothing to worry about, that I’m not going anywhere, but I know words won’t be enough. Jane needs me to show her.

And I will.

From the nightstand, my phone pings, and I groan as I reach for it.

“Leave it,” Jane says, her voice pleading.

I check the message and see it’s from Rafe, which means her request is not an option. One does not ignore a text from their beta.

“It’s Rafe,” I tell her, sitting up. I tap on the screen, bringing up the message. “Well, shit. Looks like I’ve got another scouting mission.”

“What? Why?” She bolts upright, covering her breasts with the sheet as if I hadn’t just spent all night worshiping them. “It’s not the same rogues, are they?”

“That’s what we need to figure out, I guess.” I brush some of her messy black hair out of her face and lean in to kiss her. “I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be.” She nuzzles her cheek against my palm. “Do your duty, soldier. Just, maybe don’t get attacked this time? Because then I’ll have to kill you.”

I laugh and give her a quick peck on the lips. “I’ll do my best,” I assure her.

Reluctantly, I slip out of bed and start gathering my clothes. As I’m pulling my boxers on, I notice Jane watching me, her eyes raking over my body. I flex my muscles, putting on a little show for her.

“Like what you see?” I ask, winking at her.

“Very much,” she purrs, her voice low and husky.

God, I love the way she looks at me, like I’m the only man in the world. I’m not sure I’ll ever get used to it.

“I’ll be back as soon as I can,” I promise.

“I’ll be waiting,” she replies, giving me a sultry smile.

I finish getting dressed and head out with the image of her naked body burned into my mind. It’s going to be a long day, and I have a feeling I’m not going to be able to focus.

Rafe and Jack are waiting for me when I pull up to the alpha’s house. They’re both wearing serious expressions and are quick to jump into my car.

“Where are we headed?” I ask, shifting the car into gear.

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