Page 10 of A Luna's Dynasty
Asher's words trailed off as he glanced down at his beautiful mate. Gently, he brushed a strand of golden hair from her face, marveling at how relaxed she looked.
She trusts me, he thought, a fierce protectiveness surging through him.Even if she doesn't realize it yet.
I love her, Bo purred in his mind. Asher smiled as he stared at her perfect face. He leaned down and pressed a gentle kiss to her temple.
“My luna,” he whispered, “You have no idea how much I adore you … but you’ll know soon.” Anger coursed through him as he thought about how her own pack had rejected her. He couldn't understand why anyone wouldn't want someone as delicate and precious as she was.
Maybe their loyalties were to their previous luna? From the moment he touched her, she was etched into his heart and he couldn't shake her from his thoughts. He yearned to claim her as his own and solidify the mating bond between them. However, he was willing to wait until she was ready. She was everything he could have wanted and more—perfection in every way. It was hard to believe he had almost settled for someone else before finding his true mate. Caden's words rang true now more than ever. From the first time his eyes met Lita's, all other thoughts and desires melted away. Every fiber of his being was consumed by her presence, and he knew he would do anything to have her. He had agreed to an engagement with Felicia and thought he could learn to love her, but it was impossible. Only then did he understand that no one could compare to your mate.
The moment he met her, she became his luna in his heart, his moon guiding him through the dark and lighting up his world with her radiance. The fire in his heart burned brighter than everbefore, fueled by the passion he felt for this woman who had captured his soul at first sight.
As the car slowed, approaching the pack lands, Asher reluctantly began to wake Lita. He twirled a lock of her golden hair between his fingers, marveling at its silky texture.
“Lita,” he murmured, “we're almost home.”
Her eyes fluttered open, confusion evident in their emerald depths. As realization dawned, a deep blush spread across her cheeks.
“Oh! I'm so sorry,” Lita stammered, quickly sitting up. “I didn't mean to fall asleep on you like that.”
Asher chuckled, his eyes twinkling with amusement. “Trust me, I didn't mind one bit. You're welcome to use me as a pillow anytime.”
Lita's blush deepened, but a small smile tugged at her lips. “I'll keep that in mind,” she replied, her tone a mixture of embarrassment and playfulness.
Her gaze drifted to the window, and her breath caught in her throat. The car was winding up a long, tree-lined driveway that led to the most magnificent mansion she had ever seen. Its grand stone facade gleamed in the afternoon sunlight, turrets and balconies punctuating its impressive silhouette.
“Is that ... your home?” she whispered, unable to tear her eyes away from the sight.
Asher's hand found hers, his touch both warm and reassuring. “Our home,” he corrected gently.
Chapter 7
“It’s beautiful,” she whispered. She thought she lived in a big house, but this place made her father’s place look modest. It was overwhelming.
“Not nearly as beautiful as you are, but I don’t think anything exists that can compare to you.”
“Flatterer.” Lita turned to look at him, surprised to see his serious eyes locked onto hers.
“It’s the truth.”
As the car came to a stop, Asher swiftly exited and circled around to open Lita's door. He extended his hand, helping her out with a flourish that made her feel like royalty. Before she could fully regain her composure, Asher leaned in and pressed a warm kiss to her cheek.
“Welcome home, Lita,” he said, his silver eyes gleaming with genuine happiness.
Lita's cheeks flushed scarlet, the tender gesture catching her completely off guard. Her skin tingled where his lips had touched, and she found herself at a loss for words. No one had ever shown her such affection before, and the rush of emotions it stirred within her made her heart slam against her chest. The warmth of his touch sent little bolts of lightning through her body. She wanted nothing more than to wrap her arms around his neck and place her lips on—no no, Lita, you’re setting yourself up for pain,she scolded herself.
“I ... thank you,” she stammered, her heart pounding so loudly she was sure Asher could hear it. She struggled to maintain her usual wit and bravery, feeling suddenly vulnerable in the face of his open adoration.
Asher's smile widened, clearly pleased by her reaction. “Come,” he said, offering his arm. “Let me show you around your new home, my luna.”
As Lita hesitantly placed her hand on his arm, she couldn't help but wonder if this was all a beautiful dream. She would wake up and remember that no mate would ever want her. But the warmth radiating from Asher was real. His touch was awakening her insides, and she found herself wanting this.Maybe she would pretend the dream could be her reality before the storm hit again.
Caden strode past them, effortlessly bringing in the bags they received from the get-together today. These meetings or parties usually distributed elaborate gifts to be sent home with all who attended. “I'll just play pack mule, shall I?” he quipped, stepping inside the house.
Once entering her new home, she looked around in awe. The first half of the floor was open concept. There was a large kitchen to the left with a bar to sit and eat at, and to the right was a big theater area. In front of her was a large, wide staircase. The entryway allowed for you to look straight up to the third-floor ceiling, and from each floor, you could peer down and see the entry level. It was very elaborate and overwhelming.
“I’ll show you to your room, and then I can have you shown around,” Asher said as he led her up the stairs. He escorted her down a long hall where Caden was waiting for them.
“Your chambers, milady,” he announced with an exaggerated bow that made Lita chuckle despite her nerves.
