“Today, we’re here to introduce you to Monte’s incredible inventory of handcrafted items and to promote our new online store,” Kiri continued, her cheeks flushing with pride. “Each piece is unique and made with love by Monte himself from the fallen wood around the island.”
“Thank you, Kiri,” Monte said, offering her a warm smile that sent butterflies fluttering in her stomach. “It’s true; every item I create is inspired by the beauty of nature and the magic of Monster Island. Each piece has its own grain and character. Then I craft it by hand, using traditional joinery techniques to ensure strength and durability…”
As he spoke, his natural passion for the work overtook his camera-shyness. Kiri watched, captivated, as he gestured animatedly, describing the painstaking care and attention to detail he poured into every item.
They took turns showing off different pieces, their easy banter and obvious chemistry keeping the audience engaged. Kiri snuck frequent peeks at the comments section, noticing the increasing number of viewers expressing their admiration for Monte’s craftsmanship.
It was clear that his creations were capturing the hearts of their audience.
“Monte, you’re getting quite a fanbase here,” Kiri whispered with a teasing smile, her heart swelling with pride for him. “People are loving your work.”
Her excitement mounted as the first orders started rolling in.
“Thank you all so much for your support,” Kiri said as they neared the end of the live video, her voice thick with emotion. “We’re truly grateful for your enthusiasm, and we can’t wait to share even more of Monte’s creations with you. Subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on our socials for updates on our next live stream. Until next time, signing off.”
She reached out with a trembling hand to end the live stream.
Their eyes met and held, the air between them crackling with unspoken potential. Kiri felt her heart hammering against her ribcage, certain Monte must be able to hear it. His gaze dropped to her mouth, and she licked her lips unconsciously.
He took a step closer, his fur brushing her skin. “Kiri,” he said roughly. “I...”
Just then, a chime from the computer made them both jump. Kiri turned to look at the screen and her mouth fell open.
Another chime. Then another. And another.
“Cheese and crackers, Monte!” She grabbed his arm excitedly. “Look!”
Kiri’s fingers trembled with excitement as she pointed to the screen.
Stunned, they both watched as the orders began flooding in, the inventory numbers plummeting faster than either couldhave anticipated. Kiri couldn’t remember the last time she’d felt such a rush, a bubbling giddiness fizzing through her veins.
“You did it!” She launched herself at Monte, throwing her arms around his neck in elation. He caught her easily, large hands spanning her waist, and suddenly they were nose to nose, panting and beaming at each other. “We’re sold out!”
Monte’s eyes widened. “I can’t believe it,” he muttered, shaking his head in disbelief, hauling her tight against him.
Kiri could feel the rumble of his words against her chest and she found herself drawn to the curve of his mouth. Unthinking, she surged forward, slamming her lips to his.
The world stilled for a moment as surprise sparked between them before Monte reciprocated with equal fervor.
Monte’s strong arms swept around her and hoisted her onto the workbench, scattering papers and packing materials. Clutter collapsed on all sides as she was placed at the center, as he responded to her kiss with an urgency that left her breathless and craving more. His lips were rough but tender, moving against hers with a hunger that equaled her own.
Kiri looped her arms around Monte’s thick neck, pulling him down for a deeper kiss.
Monte kissed down along Kiri’s neck, teeth grazing lightly over sensitive skin, making her arch against him as a sultry moan escaped. His strong, labor-roughened hands wandered lower to her blouse, deftly unbuttoning it with a speed that told of restrained desire bubbling beneath the surface.
Finally free, he slipped his hand inside her blouse to cup her breast. Kiri’s breath hitched as his thumb grazed over her nipple through the thin lace of her bra, sending waves of pleasure ricocheting throughout her body.
“Stay,” he whispered, his voice rough and raw. “Stay here...with me.” His large hand cupped her face gently, thumbtracing her jawline in a tender caress that sent shivers down her spine.
In this moment, Kiri knew that she wanted nothing more than to give herself over to his desires completely.
Monte leaned his forehead against hers; his hot breath fanned her face in rhythm with the quickened pace of their heartbeats. His eyes searched hers intensely.
“I’m... I’m scared, Monte,” she admitted, her voice was barely above a whisper as she pulled back slightly to glance away from the intensity of his gaze.
Confusion crossed his features. “Scared? Of what?” His voice was low, deep with concern.
“Of you,” she confessed, wringing her hands nervously, “Of... this.” She gestured vaguely between them.
