Page 52 of Worthy Promises
“I tend to find myself in the middle. Somehow feels less lonely that way.”
Oliver squeezed his hand and led him to the left side of the bed. “I hope you don’t object to cuddling.”
“On the contrary. I demand it.”
With a chuckle, Oliver motioned for Worth to get into bed. “Go on.”
“You should go in first so I can spoon you.”
“Absolutely not,” Oliver retorted. “You’re going to be in front. That way, you have plenty of space for your long limbs so you’ll be comfortable.”
“You’re not that much shorter than me, is there any room for negotiation?”
“None at all. Get in the bed, Worthington.”
Pleased by the order, Worth flashed Oliver a grin and climbed under the covers. “I’ll need a kiss before our snuggling.”
Oliver joined him and lifted a hand to caress Worth’s cheek. The gentle gesture had Worth’s heart flopping in his chest. Without a word, Oliver leaned toward him, and their lips met. Oliver’s mouth was soft, but he wasn’t hesitant about the way he conquered Worth with his tongue. Eager to submit,Worth felt his blood heat, and he clung to Oliver as he was thoroughly kissed.
When Oliver pulled away, Worth forced his eyes open and smiled at Oliver’s dilated yellow gaze. Although his cock was warming up to wanting much more than such a simple caress, Worth refused to rush. Oliver was too important, and so was their journey as mates. He wanted caring and trust to be part of their intimate encounters, and they’d only known each other for a week.
“Good night, Owlie,” Worth whispered.
“Good night.”
Oliver flicked off the light, and Worth rolled over. To his surprise, Worth suddenly had the urge to weep. It wasn’t sadness. Far from it. Oliver had moved close to Worth and had laid his head on his back. If he could, Worth would spend every night this way. He wondered how much lonelier his bed would feel after Oliver returned home.
“Owlie?”
“Yes?”
“Where have you been these past years? I’ve been fascinated by owls. I was waiting for you. Where were you?”
“In New York, waiting for you.”
Worth laid his arm on top of the one Oliver had slung across his middle. “If I ever find Fate, I’ll have some harsh words for her. How dare she keep me from you.”
“I’m just glad I finally found you.”
“Found me? I believe it was the other way ’round.”
“I was at the event first.”
“Damn.”
Oliver chuckled and pressed somehow closer to Worth. “Get some sleep.”
“As you wish,” Worth replied. Closing his eyes, he smiled and thanked Fate—not for her tardiness, but for bringing himand his mate together. Worth and his dragon slipped off to sleep, already wishing for the future when Oliver would hold him close every night.
Chapter 18
Oliver hated to leave D’Vaire, but it was inevitable. After another quick teleport by Dra’Kaedan, he and Orion stood in the foyer of their house. The silence was deafening. While Oliver wouldn’t describe D’Vaire as loud, it was active and filled with people who clearly enjoyed each other’s company. The love and affection between everyone filled Oliver with envy.
But far greater than the jealousy was the joy that Worthington lived there. Each day, his mate woke in a supportive, caring environment. Worthington ate scrumptious meals and, like Oliver, had a rewarding career. Only Worthington didn’t work endless hours in a quiet house. Once Orion went to bed at night, Oliver hated the solitude left behind, so he routinely locked himself in his office until he trudged up to his bedroom, yawning.
Following Oliver’s expected move to D’Vaire, he’d immediately cut his hours. It wasn’t just because he couldn’t wait to repeat the incomparable experience of waking up with Worthington using his chest as a pillow. Oliver would’ve lain there forever given the chance, but it was not to be. Worthington had woken minutes later, and although they’d shared a few kisses, they were soon showered and scarfing down a delicious breakfast.
At Oliver’s side, Orion lifted his head so their nearly identical yellow eyes met. “I miss Zarasha.”
