Page 92 of The Dark Obsession

“You’re almost there. Hang on.” The man smiles in my direction as dread pools in my stomach.

Lopping my arms around Tyson’s middle in what must look like a loving gesture to the outsider, I try deescalating the situation before he can do something rash.

“We’re fine.” The glare Tyson sends his way would scare the bravest of men, his black eyes burning with contempt.

Wrapping an arm around me with his hand holding the back of my head in the crook of his neck, he marks his territory while effectively hiding me at the same time.

The man is long gone when Tyson releases his death grip on me while I continue rubbing calming circles over his back.

“It’s not going to be like this forever.” He kisses my temple.

“Either way, I don’t think I was built to do this again anytime soon.” I nod towards the trail in an attempt to lighten the mood. “I’m not sure I’ll even make it down.”

“That’s what I’m here for.” He winks and my heart skips a beat at the easygoing gesture. So unlike his usual self, but incredibly attractive all the same.

“Huh?”

“Just jump on my back and I’ll carry you whenever you feel like it, baby.”

My eyes bulge out of their sockets, eyebrows shooting up to my hairline.

“I’m dead serious, Malory. We aren’t risking any blisters on your delicate, little feet.”

With that he hauls both of my legs into his lap, loosening the laces on my running shoes before slipping them off with care.

I almost groan with relief when Tyson starts gently massaging my tired soles.

“Ehm…” I hesitate in embarrassment, his raised eyebrow prompting me to continue. “It’s just, sorry I’m sweaty.”

“Don’t apologize, I don’t mind any of your bodily fluids, little one.” He adds suggestively and I can feel my cheeks heat.

“So, I can add foot fetish to your long list of kinks?” I retort before his crudeness can get me all hot and bothered.

“Mhm.” He lifts one leg, kissing the inside of my ankle, his warm breath tickling the thin skin. “But only yours.”

I’m sure my face is blood red by now and it’s definitely not from the exertion.

“It’s not much farther, little one. I can throw you over my shoulder or we can turn around if you want?” He puts my shoes back on, double knotting the laces. “It’s up to you, but I think you’d love the view.”

The concern in his voice melts my heart to a puddle and suddenly my aching feet don’t seem like such a big deal.

“No, I’m good. Thanks for the offer though.” I grin, before getting up on my tiptoes, softly kissing the side of his neck.

With a groan, Tyson entwines our fingers before leading me up the rest of the way.

It’s majestic.

Mountains spanning all along the horizon, coming together in a seemingly endless valley covered in a sea of trees that have been left untouched for hundreds of years.

There are no words to describe the wonder stretching out before me. No painting or picture good enough to capture the natural beauty of this place.

Our place.

We’re standing at the edge of a cliff overlooking the wilderness below.

Tyson’s arms wrapped around me from behind. His chin resting on top of my head, partially shielding me from the crisp air as we both take in the unbelievable view.

Looking down towards the valley, I try making out something familiar. I know I won’t be able to see our cabin from all the way up here, but it’s rare to even catch a glimpse of the winding creek through the thick forest.

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