“RAJA!”
I nearly leapt out of my skin. My mother’s voice cut through the serene quiet and rushing water. She and Zumi stood on the shore with their arms crossed, looking half exasperated and half excited to see Lorenzo and I together. I groaned, wishing she hadn’t come here and ruined my moment with Lorenzo.
“What is it?” I called.
“Youknowyou’re not supposed to be outside the village,” my mother said, but she didn’t seem too bothered by it. Instead, her lips curled in amusement.
“I know,” I said, waiting for thebutshe inevitably would continue to say.
“But…” She smiled at Lorenzo, who was still standing strong by my side. “You’re with your fated mate, so I suppose it’s fine. I know he won’t let anything happen to you.”
In a deep, masculine voice, Lorenzo declared, “Of course not. I’ll protect Raja from any harm.” Then he winked at me. Cheeky bastard, indeed.
“Aren’t they so cute together?” Zumi said, giggling to my mom.
My mom’s eyes sparkled. “Yes. But they would be cuter if they were already dressed and ready for the wedding.” She clapped her hands. “Come out now, before you turn wrinkly!”
They turned around so we could climb out of the water and dress ourselves. I snuck another glance at Lorenzo. Sparkling water droplets slipped down his muscles. Standing wet under the sunlight, he looked absolutely stunning.
Once dressed, he offered his arm to me. “Shall we?”
I could practically hear mother and Zumi squealing with happiness.
I looped my arm into his. “Yes. Let’s.”
