“That’s kind of sad,” I admitted, sorrow filling my heart at his words.
“It is, but it isn’t,” he admitted, turning me toward a column to my right. “They grow and learn on their own before they finally get to come together, and then they get to spend the rest of eternity locked in each other’s embrace.”
I marveled at the seamless way the two parts had joined to form one smooth surface.
Suddenly, an unexpected flicker of hope ignited in my chest. If they could reach each other, maybe one day I too could find my other half.
Without warning, Alpha Caelan reached forward and wrapped his arms around me, pulling me tight against his hard torso.
I stiffened instantly, unsure of how I was supposed to react as I placed my hands on his bare chest. Everywhere our bodies touched sent thrilling sparks rippling across my skin.
I sighed, relaxing a little and willing the feeling to seep into my bones. Goddess help me, but it felt right.
He buried his face in my hair and inhaled deeply, taking in my scent. I could feel the tension in his body ease as he took another breath.
After several silent moments, Alpha Caelan finally loosened his hold on me and took a small step back.
Confused, I glanced up. He was looking down at the space between us, staring at where my fingers were splayed out against his bare skin.
“Oh! Uh, I’m s-sorry. I didn’t mean to,” I mumbled, snatching my hand away.
But before I could react, he grabbed my wrist and slowly brought it back to his chest.
I gulped, staring at the spot where my hand touched him. Worry prickled beneath my skin.
What do I do now? I shouldn’t be touching him at all, but he clearly wants me to. I don’t hate it either. I can feel his heartbeat beneath my palm. It’s comforting. Goddess, I need to stop. This isn’t supposed to be about me. Remember the mission. How do I get his attention back on Sunny?
“If I didn’t think it would freak you out, I’d kiss you right now,” he groaned, his voice unusually strained.
I jumped, blindsided by his confession.Kiss me?! He wants to kiss me?! Me?!I pulled out of his grasp slowly, and he didn’t try to force me to stay. I stepped away, running a shaking hand through my hair.
I have to get a grip on myself. He’s supposed to want Sunny, not me. I need to get him back on track.
“I’m sorry,” he sighed. “I shouldn’t have said that. I know you’re probably not ready for physical contact like that. I just couldn’t help myself. I’m trying to be patient, but it’s hard.”
Patient for what? This is getting out of hand. Sunny. Talk up Sunny.I chewed on my lip as I fidgeted.
“If you don’t want me to think about kissing you, Shade, then you need to stop bringing my attention to those luscious lips of yours,” he teased.
I instantly released it, turning so he wouldn’t see the desire on my face. Goddess, I wanted to tempt him. I wanted him to press his lips to mine as he pulled me close like he had a moment ago.
I put a hand to my head trying to clear my thoughts.
“Um…so…uh, Sunny… She’s really g-great. I think you two would…um…would get along really well,” I stuttered, trying to get his attention back on her.
Thunder Moon was counting on me. No matter what I wanted, the pack’s safety had to come first. We needed this alliance more than anything.
“Really?” he said in surprise. “I admit that I want to kiss you, and your first reaction is to talk up another woman? Are you really trying to push me toward Sunny?”
“It’s what’s best for everyone,” I admitted quietly. “Thunder Moon needs this union.”
“Why?” he pressed, his tone warming with frustration. “We’re already allies. Why is it so important that I choose Sunny? Wouldn’t it be the same result if I were to pick you? You’re still part of Thunder Moon.”
“It’s not the same. Sunny is the daughter of the alpha. I’m an omega. Why would you ever…” I sighed heavily, letting my words slip away. “Sunny is in danger. She won’t be safe until she’s mated. And she’s a much better candidate for luna than I am. I can’t…”
He moved forward, closing the distance between us. “You can’t tell me that you don’t sense it, Shade,” he whispered. “I understand you don’t know a lot about mates, but please tell me that you feel this too.”
His fingers gently brushed against mine, sending little pulses of energy zipping through my veins. I shivered but didn’t back away.
