She froze, processing his words. The concept of mating heat was something she’d read about but never fully understood until now. Seeing Monte like this—vulnerable yet dangerous—stirred a mix of emotions within her.
Fear for him, not of him.
And something else—an undeniable pull, raw and magnetic.
“Monte, I told you that I’m not leaving you.” Her voice was stern, as her gaze never left his.
“Damn it, Kiri!” Monte growled, stomping his feet, causing large splashes in the water. “This isn’t a game! I can’t control myself when I’m like this!”
“Then don’t,” she replied softly, taking a step closer to the water’s edge. “Don’t control it. Let it out. Show me who you really are, Monte.”
“Then run!” He staggered forward, causing ripples to dance across the lake’s surface. “Run as fast as you can, because once I’ve caught you, you’re mine.”
A shot of adrenaline ripped through Kiri’s veins, making her heart gallop in her chest. His words were a mix of a warning and a plea, one that set her nerves on fire. But there was no fear, only the exhilarating thrill of being chased—and being caught—by him.
Moonlight filtered through the dense canopy of trees, casting a silvery glow on the forest floor as Kiri darted between the trunks. Her laughter echoed through the night, mingling with the rustle of leaves and the heavy, rhythmic stomps of Monte’s pursuit.
“Catch me if you can!” she called over her shoulder, exhilaration spiking her voice.
Monte was hot on her heels, his heavy pants echoing eerily through the dense thicket. His monstrous form loomed in every shadow; she could practically feel his breath on her back as his powerful legs propelled him forward with earth-shaking force.
She veered off the path, her feet light and sure despite the uneven terrain. The forest seemed to pulse with their shared rhythm, branches parting for her, roots steady beneath her steps.
Laughter escaped her lips as she glanced over her shoulder catching sight of him. His horns glinted under the moonlight as he charged after her, his eyes burning with wild desire.
She skidded around a large tree clumsily, barely managing to keep herself upright before sprinting off again toward their cabin. Never in her life had she felt so free—so alive—and deep down, she knew Monte wouldn’t hurt her.
A clearing opened up ahead, revealing the large gazebo beside the hot tub, its structure overlooking the tranquil lake.The cabin and the woodmaking barn framed them, with only the secluded open lawn and personal garden nearby.
Closer... the cabin was close now. Her legs were burning with exertion, lungs gasping for air, but she didn’t slow. She wouldn’t. She had permitted the chase, and she was going to see it through.
“Monte!” she called over her shoulder, her voice carrying on the wind. “Come get me.”
One last burst of strength, one last sprint before reaching the gazebo.
“Got you,” Monte’s voice was a growl, rough and filled with longing as he caught her arm, spinning her into his embrace. His hands were firm yet gentle, his touch igniting sparks where their skin met as their bodies collided.
“You can’t escape,” he rumbled, his breath warm against her ear. The words were both a promise and a challenge, his grip tightening possessively. Something long, hard, and warm pressed between them.
“Good,” Kiri breathed out, pressing closer as she stood on her toes, her lips brushing his neck. “I don’t want to.”
Sixteen
Kiri
Moonlight bathed the gazebo in an ethereal glow as Monte carried Kiri inside, his powerful arms cradling her body with tender strength. Her heart raced, pounding against her ribs as a surge of desire coursed through her veins. Her breath hitched with anticipation as his touch felt electric against her flushed skin.
Monte lowered Kiri onto the plush cushions, his dark eyes smoldering with barely restrained passion. His large, fur-covered hand reached out to caress her face, callused fingers trailing across her cheek with surprising gentleness. Shivers raced down Kiri’s spine at his touch, igniting sparks of need deep within her core.
“Kiri,” he rumbled, his voice rough with emotion. “You are so beautiful.”
“Monte,” she replied breathlessly, drawn in by the intensity of his gaze. Her fingers reached up to trace the curve of his horns, marveling at the raw power they represented. He leaned in closer as her fingers found his thick mane, reveling in itscoarse softness, his hot breath tickling her ear as he nuzzled against her. “I want you, Monte. All of you.”
“Are you sure about this?” A low growl vibrated through his chest as he leaned down, nuzzling her neck. His warm breath caressed her skin, sending tingles rippling across her flesh. “You already have me, my little flower. Body, heart and soul.”
Kiri felt her chest swell with affection for this tender, loving beast who was so worried about her wellbeing.
“Never been more sure of anything in my life. “Kiri’s eyes fluttered closed as Monte’s lips found the sensitive spot just below her ear. Each brush of his mouth stoked the flames building inside her. His solid weight pressed her into the cushions as his hands began to roam her curves, leaving trails of tingling heat in their wake.
