Page 27 of Honey Heat
Lucio tightened his hold on Ethan, a silent promise forming in his heart. He would protect what was his, no matter the cost. And when he found the man in the suit—the one who had watched Ethan’s torture with those cold, calculating eyes—there would be hell to pay.
His phone vibrated on the nightstand. Careful not to disturb Ethan, Lucio reached for it, squinting at the bright screen.
A text from Boone. Is he safe?
Lucio typed back one-handed. Yes. Sleeping now. He’s worried about you.
The reply came quickly. Taking care of some things. Tell him I’ll see him tomorrow. And, wolf, if anything happens to him, I’ll hold you personally responsible.
Lucio’s mouth curved into a grim smile as he set the phone aside. At least they agreed on one thing. Ethan’s safety came first.
Outside, the wind picked up, branches scratching against the window like restless fingers. Lucio listened to his mate’s steady breathing, finding comfort in the rhythm.
Whatever was coming, the Salvador pack would be ready. And God help anyone who tried to hurt Ethan again.
Chapter Eight
Ethan turned over, his eyes slowly opening. The room was dark and unfamiliar. Then his gaze landed on Lucio, asleep next to him. Ethan studied his handsome features, unable to resist touching his beard.
Lucio did say he could explore any part of his mate’s body. The thick hair was surprisingly soft beneath his fingertips, not coarse like he’d expected.
His mate stirred, dark eyes opening to meet Ethan’s. “Buenos días, osito.”
Heat pooled in Ethan’s belly at the sleepy roughness in Lucio’s voice. His bear rumbled with satisfaction, urging him closer.
“Hi,” Ethan whispered, suddenly aware of how close they were, legs tangled together beneath the sheets. His borrowed T-shirt had ridden up during the night, exposing a strip of skin where Lucio’s hand now rested.
Lucio’s thumb traced lazy circles against Ethan’s hip. “Sleep well?”
“Better than I have in days.” The truth was Ethan couldn’t remember the last time he’d slept so deeply, so completely at peace despite everything.
Lucio leaned forward, pressing his lips to Ethan’s forehead in a gesture so tender it made something inside him ache. “Hungry?”
“Not for food.” The words slipped out before Ethan could stop them. His cheeks burned instantly, but he didn’t look away. Holy crap. Had he really said that? Stewart would be so proud of him.
Focus.
Lucio went still, his eyes darkening as they searched Ethan’s face. “What are you hungry for, hermoso?”
Too shy to answer, Ethan closed the distance between them, pressing his lips to Lucio’s. The kiss started gentle, a question, before Lucio responded with a low sound in his throat. His hand slid up Ethan’s back, pulling him closer.
Yes!
The kiss deepened, Lucio’s tongue sliding against his, tasting of warmth and promise. Ethan’s bandaged hands clutched at Lucio’s shirt, frustrated by the barrier between them.
As soon as he could, Ethan was getting rid of his bandages. His fingers felt fine, and he was sick of his hands being useless.
“Can you take your shirt off, please?” he murmured against Lucio’s mouth. “I-I want to feel you.”
Lucio pulled back just enough to tug his shirt over his head, revealing smooth copper skin stretched over defined muscle. Ethan’s breath caught at the sight of him, all lean strength and masculine beauty.
Sweet mercy.
“Yours too,” Lucio whispered, fingers finding the hem of Ethan’s borrowed shirt.
Ethan lifted his arms, wincing slightly as the movement pulled at his healing ribs. Lucio immediately slowed his movements, easing the fabric up with careful hands.
“You okay?” his mate asked, tossing the shirt aside.
