I don’t think a man like him is very familiar with the word, let alone the concept of it.
“You don’t have to say it back. I just wanted to tell you before tomorrow. I don’t know what’s going to happen, and I want you to know you mean more to me than you think.”
Silence blankets us. I snuggle deeper into his chest, praying even after tomorrow, we will get another chance to do this.
My eyes drift shut, and it’s then I hear his words.
“I don’t know if I’m capable of loving at all. Not anymore. Not after my past. But if I could love someone, it would be you. It would be you.”
My chest constricts, and I know we need to survive tomorrow—we need to survive Xander. Not only to live, but maybe also to love.
I wake up in the cocoon that is Damon. His arms are slung around me, and one of his legs is draped across both of mine, securing me to his body, making certain I don't escape. I have just enough room to breathe, and as my skin moves against his, I realize how sticky and hot we both are.
Memories of the night before flood my mind. The way he cared for me and brought my body to unforeseen heights. I never expected him to be so gentle.
I peer at Damon’s sleeping form. He looks so at peace, so happy, and I wish he could remain like this forever.
I wish we could run away together and leave this life behind.
Emotions swarm me as I realize today I'll be forced to see Xander again—the man who had my brother killed. Damon said he would protect me, but can he? Can he protect me from his own brother?
Leo paid in blood…and for what? Stealing money? I didn't realize I was crying until I felt wetness against my cheeks. Pushing my face against Damon’s chest, I try to stop myself from letting any more tears fall. He stirs next to me, pulling me tighter into his embrace—almost squeezing me so hard, I can’t breathe.
When a wheezing noise escapes me, he pulls my face toward his and stares into my eyes.
“Are you okay?”
“Yeah. I think sometimes you forget how strong you are.”
“Were you crying?”
“I was just thinking about my brother…that’s all.”
“I’m sorry.” He takes my face between his two large hands, wiping the tears away with his thumbs.
“Everything is going to be okay. I can’t bring back your brother, but I can make sure nothing happens to you.”
He kisses my cheeks, then claims my mouth. I can still taste the salty wetness on his lips. Deepening the kiss, I pull him closer, moaning into his mouth. Maybe I can trust Damon. Maybe I can believe everything will be okay.
Damon breaks the kiss before it turns into something more, leaving me panting with need. “I don't think you know what you're asking for, baby.”
I can feel his hardening cock against my leg, and I want to tell him I know exactly what I'm asking for, but Damon continues talking.
“I’d love nothing more than to take your begging pussy, but you need a break after last night. So how about we go get some breakfast before I change my mind—because I can guarantee you wouldn't want me to take you again right now.”
I nibble on my bottom lip mischievously. “And why is that? You don't know what I want?”
Damon smirks. A predatory look fixes his eyes. “I did everything I could last night to make your first time everything you could have ever wanted, but right now, I want to fuck you like an animal in heat.”
I shiver, but I’m positive it’s not from fear—not when the muscles in my belly tighten.
“The idea is intriguing, but I can't control myself right now—and I won't hurt you. So get your beautiful ass out of bed and help me make breakfast.”
My brow furrows. “You cook?”
Damon untangles himself from my body and climbs out of bed.
“I don’t like having people in my house. I have someone who cleans once a week, but that's it—and usually, I'm here when she is. But I don’t want staffaround, and I don't want to eat take-out every night. That’s left me with one single option: cook for myself.”
