“Incredible,” Monte finished, brushing a tender kiss to her temple. “I told you to trust me.”
“I do.”
They lay entwined, basking in the afterglow, for the first time in longer than he could remember, Monte felt a sense of peace settle over him. With Kiri in his arms and the promise of a future together, he knew he had finally found where he belonged.
As they drifted off to sleep, the crackling fire their lullaby, Monte had one question on his mind:
How will we survive the full moon?
Twelve
Kiri
Kiri’s eyes fluttered open as she stretched languidly on the plush rug in front of the crackling fireplace. The cozy warmth enveloped her like a loving embrace, drawing a contented sigh from her lips. She nestled deeper into the soft fabric, relishing the comforting sensations against her bare skin.
Strange noises drifted in from outside, piquing her curiosity. Metal clanged rhythmically accompanied by deep, rumbling voices. What could be going on out there at this early hour?
Kiri pushed herself up, casting her gaze around the rustic cabin. Spotting a flannel blanket draped over a chair, she reached for it and wrapped the soft material around her lithe frame. The masculine scent of Monte still clung to the fibers, stirring a flutter of desire low in her belly.
Scanning the living room—and the rest of the open first floor plan—in the dark, with only the silver moonlight beaming through the windows as her guide, she couldn’t spot Monte or her clothing anywhere. Frowning, she picked up her walking stick, which was leaned up against the couch beside her, and scanned her nude body.
Why am I clean? I should be sticky all over from being bathed in his cum…
More loud noises echoed out, drawing Kiri’s attention once more.
Intrigued by the mysterious sounds and who in their right mind would be up at this hour, Kiri rose from her cozy nest. She padded softly across the hardwood floor as she gingerly walked toward the front door.
Goosebumps prickled her bare feet as she approached, her heart racing—every step sent a shiver down her spine. Her hand trembled slightly as she reached for the doorknob, eager to discover the source of the mysterious sounds that had woken her.
Taking a steadying breath, Kiri turned the knob and eased the door open a crack. Crisp morning air caressed her face as she peeked outside...
The moment Kiri opened the door, her eyes locked onto the unexpected sight of a large gargoyle perched on the porch, his stony gray-green skin and amber eyes giving him an otherworldly appearance. Startled, Kiri let out a surprised scream, her heart leaping into her throat.
“Kiri!” Monte’s deep voice sounded from around the corner, and then he was thundering toward her, wrapping strong arms around her to envelop her protectively.
“Monte! What’s happening?” Kiri gasped, clutching at his chest as she tried to catch her breath.
“Sorry, miss.” The gargoyle chuckled, unfazed by her reaction. “Didn’t mean to startle you. Just dropping off Monte’s special delivery.”
“In the middle of the night?!”
“Jasper is my local mail delivery man and a trusted friend, Kiri,” Monte explained, his soothing voice calming her racing heart. “He delivers our mail at night, which is why you haven’tseen him before.” He pressed a reassuring kiss to her temple, his fur tickling her skin.
Kiri relaxed into his embrace, tension draining from her body. Of course Monte wouldn’t let anyone dangerous near his home. She felt foolish for overreacting.
“Ah, I see,” Kiri murmured, her embarrassment growing along with the warmth in her cheeks. “Well, it’s nice to meet you, Jasper.”
“Likewise.” Jasper grinned, his gaze flicking between Kiri and Monte with a hint of amusement. “You two seem to be... enjoying each other’s company.”
“I’ll say,” Kiri mumbled under her breath, fighting the urge to hide herself behind Monte’s massive frame. Instead, she focused on the feeling of safety that his presence provided, allowing it to chase away her lingering awkwardness. “But why do you make deliveries at night?”
“My clan and I are mountain gargoyles,” Jasper explained, jerking his thumb in the direction of the noise beside the cabin. “We’re a nocturnal species, and tend to avoid the day.”
“Because of the sun?”
“The sun, the heat… the brightness.” Jasper flapped his wings. “The daytime is feral, compared to the night life. While we are able to get around during the day, it’s very painful, which is why we make our deliveries at night.”
“All of that makes sense.” Kiri leaned into Monte. “But how do you know someone has a package for pickup?”
