Leyden studied him for a long moment, then nodded and returned to his tablet. Giving Connor space without demanding answers.
Gods, Connor loved him for that.
They worked through the morning – normal stuff. Patrol reports, enforcer schedules, background checks on a few prospective pack members. Connor tried to concentrate, but his gaze kept drifting to Leyden’s forearms, the shift of muscle beneath skin when he typed.
What the hell was wrong with me?
Nothing. Nothing was wrong. Connor realized he was experiencing his attraction for Leyden that was developing slowly but naturally.Thank the Fates I didn’t get a blast of insta-lust. I wouldn’t be able to function.
Connor’s curiosity - and slight obsession if he was honest with himself - was natural. He’d connected with Leyden emotionally, knew Leyden could be trusted and felt safe with the man.
So why did wanting to see his mate naked – intentionally without it being a shift - feel so terrifying?
By noon, Connor’s nerves had wound so tight he could barely sit still. Of course, Leyden noticed - their bond made hiding emotions nearly impossible.
“Connor.” Leyden set down his pen. “What’s going on?”
“I’m just thinking about stuff. I need to…” Connor stood abruptly. “I’m going for a run.”
He’d stripped and shifted before Leyden could respond, bolting out the house. His wolf stretched into the sprint, grateful for the release of pent-up energy.
But running didn’t help. Connor’s thoughts chased him through the trees, relentless.
You want to see him. Just ask.
What if he thinks I’m ready for more than I am?
He won’t. Leyden never pushes.
Isn’t this just me being a tease?
No, it’s you setting the pace. You know he wants that.
What if seeing him naked changes things?
What if it doesn’t? What if you’re ready for this?
Connor circled back to the pack house an hour later, no closer to finding answers. He shifted and dressed, then stood in the hallway dithering.I should find my mate.Leyden was probably worried about him.
The sound of running water filtered through the bedroom door as he made his way upstairs.
He’s in the shower.
Connor’s heart kicked against his ribs.
He could wait until Leyden finished. They could have a casual conversation about Connor’s nerves and curiosity over lunch. Or he could be honest. Like the forum posts recommended. Like Leyden deserved.
Connor pushed open the bedroom door just as the bathroom door opened. Steam billowed out, and Leyden emerged with a towel wrapped low around his hips, water still beading on his shoulders.
Connor froze.
Leyden paused mid-step, surprise flickering across his face, followed by a smile. “Hey, there. Did you have a good run. I didn’t hear you come back.”
“I…er…” Connor’s mouth had gone completely dry. Leyden’s chest was right there, all defined muscle and smooth tanned skin. Water droplets traced paths down his abs, disappearing beneath the towel. “I want to see you.”
The words tumbled out before Connor could stop them.
Leyden went very still. “See me? I’m right here.”
