Page 46 of Worthy Promises
“I do have myself to offer as well.”
Oliver’s gaze eagerly swept across the long form of the exquisitely made man clad in dark jeans and an untucked button-down in pink-and-white stripes. “You’re a very enticing package, Worthington.”
“We already know you wish to see me naked.”
“Is there an unmated gay man on this planet who doesn’t?”
“I’d hardly know; it’s been over a century since I’ve had sex.”
In genuine shock, Oliver blinked heavily. “What?”
“Trust isn’t easy for me, Owliver. I want everything with you. All I ask in return is that you be gentle with me. My hurts have mended, but you have the power to break me. I’d prefer if you didn’t.”
Moved by Worthington’s honesty and willingness to be so candid, Oliver swung his legs to the deck and sat up straight. Their gazes locked, and Oliver lifted a trembling hand to cup Worthington’s cheek. “I’ve never offered my heart to anyone. My parents disliked me. I have no friends. Until this moment, I didn’t understand that I was saving all the caring and friendship I desire for my mate. For you, Worthington. I’ll take care of you. All I ask is that you do the same for me. I need your honesty. If at any point this isn’t working, don’t lead me on. Walk away before you break me.”
Worthington surged forward so their lips met, and Oliver gave up everything to instinct. His tongue darted out, and he tasted Worthington’s welcoming mouth and exulted in the DukeArgent’s surrender. Oliver was immediately torn between desire and an overwhelming surge of protectiveness for the incredible man he was just getting to know.
“Owliver,” Worthington said against his lips.
“Yes?”
“Did I mention how much I want to get you naked?”
Oliver leaned his forehead on Worthington’s and breathed him in. “I’ll have you soon.”
“If you want my dick to calm down, you need to stop talking to me like that.”
With a chuckle, Oliver pulled away and smiled as Worthington stole a quick kiss. “When can I see you again?”
“What are your plans for tomorrow, Owliver?”
Chapter 16
Feeling on top of the world, Worth sailed into the kitchen and grinned at Noirin. On his shoulder, Asteria sat up tall and was eagerly awaiting her first bite of bacon. “How are you doing this morning?”
Noirin’s expression was a cross between a smile and a grimace. “It pisses me off that my belly is so offended by the smell of coffee. I didn’t throw up, but it was a close call.”
Suitably ashamed that his mind was already on his first hit of caffeine, Worth shrugged. “Ban it from the kitchen until you’ve had your son?”
“Pretty sure I’d also get banned from the kitchen if I did that,” Noirin replied with a chuckle. “There are far too many people in this house horribly tied to getting that first mug in the morning.”
“Well now I feel bad that I’m one of the culprits.”
With a squeeze to Worth’s arm, Noirin rolled her eyes. “That’s because you’re sweet under all that sarcasm and drama. Go get your coffee and breakfast.”
“Sarcasm and drama?” Worth asked with mock indignation. “How dare you, Your Grace. If you weren’t expecting a child, I’d demand you lift your sword against mine immediately.” Both Worth and Noirin enjoyed taking swordlessons from their incomparable teacher, Rafe. In the years that had passed since Rafe arrived at the house, Worth had grown into a decent swordsman, and Noirin was a fair match for him. But there was no way in hell he’d get into a duel with her while she was expecting.
“You know you’re kinda proving her point,” Jeremiah said from behind Worth.
“Thank you,” Noirin responded. “Now, I have things to do, so go get yourselves food and get out of my face. And Worth? I can still kick your ass in a swordfight.”
“How I’m related to such a cruel woman is a mystery to me,” Worth retorted with an aggrieved sniff.
Noirin laughed and shooed them out of her way. Dutifully, Worth rounded the island with Jeremiah on his heels to get in line for breakfast.
“How are things going with Oliver?” Jeremiah asked as he reached up to pet Asteria.
“Very well, we already talk daily,” Worth replied. Although a warm flush of happiness swept through him at the thought of Oliver, he didn’t miss the tension in the usually carefree Jeremiah’s shoulders or the line between his brows. “I can’t wait for your other half to show up. As your family, I’ll continue checking the door to make sure no stray mates are lounging outside.”
