Page 53 of The Wolf's Plus-Size Bride

But then I have to wonder if when the truth comes out, I’ll be able to hold onto this. Technically, they were right. Reiner was using me, but I was using him, too. I just don’t know if they’ll be able to accept him when they learn the truth.

I push the thought out of my head. I can’t let myself think like that. Right now, all I want is to enjoy this night, this moment. I want to live in the present, not worry about the future.

Reiner nudges my shoulder with his and says, “You know, there’s a lake right on the other side of the hill. I thought since you like skinny-dipping and all, you might want to give it a shot.”

“Are you serious?” I laugh.

“Completely.”

My first instinct is to say no, that it’s a terrible idea. I haven’t had nearly enough to drink to strip down and jump into a lake. But there’s a part of me that wants to do it. I’ve never been one for big risks, but I’m starting to realize that maybe it’s time for me to take a few.

“Okay,” I say. “Let’s do it.”

“Really?” he asks, sounding surprised.

“Yeah, why not? It’s not like we’re going to get caught. We’re in the middle of nowhere. Come on, I’ll race you.”

“You’re on,” he says, grinning.

Without a word to the others, Reiner and I jump to our feet and start racing up the hill, peeling off our clothes and throwing them aside as we go. We’re both laughing and giggling, and I feel more free and alive than I have in a long time.

When we reach the top of the hill, we’re completely naked, and the moonlight is shining down on us.

“Ready?” he asks, his voice husky.

“Yes,” I whisper.

“Go!” he shouts, and we’re off, running down the hill toward the lake.

The cool night air feels amazing against my bare skin, and the adrenaline pumping through my veins is exhilarating. When we crash into the water, it’s ice-cold, but I don’t care. I’m too busy laughing and splashing around, enjoying this moment.

“You’re crazy,” Reiner laughs.

“Maybe a little,” I concede.

“I love it,” he says. “You’re so full of surprises, Jane Forrester.”

He pulls me close, and I wrap my arms around his neck, looking into his eyes. I can’t believe I’m here, in a lake, naked, with the most gorgeous man I’ve ever seen. It feels like a dream, but it’s not. It’s real.

“So are you, Reiner Thomas,” I murmur.

Our lips meet, and the kiss is electric. My whole body tingles, and I can feel the heat between us. He picks me up, and I wrap my legs around his waist, clinging to him as if my life depends on it.

The rest of the night, we’re inseparable. We make love under the stars, and it’s the most magical experience of my life. I’ve never felt so connected to another person, and I’m not sure I ever will again.

I know this won’t last forever. Soon, Reiner and I will have to return to our respective lives and go our separate ways. But for now, I’m going to enjoy every second I have with him.

Chapter 19 - Reiner

I’ve been welding since I was old enough to pick up a torch. It’s always been a passion of mine, and I’ve spent countless hours perfecting my craft. When I was offered a job at the local steel mill, I jumped at the chance. I’ve always loved the smell of the shop, the sound of the machines, and the feeling of accomplishment that comes from a hard day’s work. It’s my safe place, my sanctuary.

Mostly, I make parts for cars, trucks, and other large machinery, but when I get a bit of free time, I like to try my hand at more artistic projects. Today, I’m working on a piece for Jane. It’s a small sculpture of a wolf, and it’s coming along beautifully. The details are intricate, and the lines are clean. I’m proud of my work, and I can’t wait to see the look on her face when she sees it.

“You really should think about making a career out of this,” a voice says from behind me.

I turn, smiling when I see Rodney, my boss. He’s a short, stocky man with a thick beard and a bald head. He’s got a gruff exterior, but he’s a good guy. He’s always been supportive of my artistic side, even though he knows it’s not exactly practical.

“Yeah, right,” I chuckle. “I don’t think there’s a big demand for handmade sculptures.”

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