Page 44 of The Shadow King's Brother

“Did you want something?” I ask, eyes still locked on Nica—wanting her, needing her—though the question’s aimed at Vinny.

“Nothing,” he says with a shrug. “My watchdog’s just taking me for a stroll.” He jerks his chin at Gio.

“Sorry,” Gio mutters, tone low. “Didn’t know you were in here…”

I give him a curt nod.

“Get lost, Vinny,” Nica snaps, her eyes blazing.

I don’t let Vinny get to me.

Instead, I move.

I sweep Nica up into my arms—easily, naturally, like her body belongs there. Like it always has.

My stance is solid, a steel wall between her and Vinny. I won’t let anyone get close. Not now. Not ever.

“Excuse us,” I say, voice a low groan, never breaking eye contact with her.

I carry her out, every step deliberate, claiming her with every breath.

“We have some… unfinished business upstairs.”

She’s mine.

Always has been.

Always will be.

And I’ll destroy anyone who even thinks about threatening her.

* * *

We reach the bedroom,and I kick the door shut behind us.

The room’s dim, the curtains pulled tight. The air smells like sandalwood and worn leather. The bed’s a mess—silk sheets tangled, the dark wood frame heavy and familiar.

She looks at me—eyes locked, burning. That look wrecks me every time.

There’s no hiding in it. No turning back.

Her mouth is full, parted just slightly. Waiting. Tempting.

I take the back of her head, firm but gentle, and pull her in.

She melts into the kiss, her arms wrapping tight around me, her body pressed close.

I deepen it, letting it turn rougher, needier—letting her feel everything I’ve been holding back. The fire, the ache, the fucking chaos she stirs in me.

She sets something off in me—wild, uncontrollable.

I don’t know if I can stop.

But I don’t want to.

I need her.

Now.

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