“I know you’re right, but the other Adepts make it look like they’re lightyears ahead of me,” I said. “And what do you mean ‘our world?”
Blake took my hand as he walked me through the garden.
“One thing at a time. It has been my experience that most Adepts who excel quickly reach their maximum potential abruptly,” he said. “It requires true and intentional introspection to reach greater heights.”
“You sound like Professor Kaito,” I muttered.
He laughed. “I know he is hard to follow. But he is truly a master of his art.”
I didn’t doubt that, just my ability to glean anything useful from it. I tried to clear my mind and soak in the courtyard's peacefulness before Blake guided me towards the covered archway that wrapped around the perimeter.
“You know,” he started, then turned and gave me an amused grin. “I was scolded for having such an influence on your awakening.”
A deep heat rose in my cheeks. “What? Why?”
Blake shrugged. “Because the council members are old and like to complain about everything.”
He moved toward me in a manner I wasn’t anticipating. I stumbled backward, hitting the stone column of one of the archways. Blake’s hand caught my hip, stabilizing me. His otherslid up my arm slowly, his eyes following his path until he reached my chin. He guided my chin up until I met his dark gaze.
“Nothing they say matters,” he murmured, his lips nearing mine as my heart began to pound against my chest. “I would do it again, and again, and again.”
His breath mingled with mine as my lips parted, his chest closing against me as I tried to keep my breath steady.
I couldn’t.
His closeness was like a spell—it overtook my mind, body, and soul. It swept me away to another world and cast away all my defenses. I’d deny him nothing in these moments. My soul was his to take; he need not ask. Warmth spread through my limbs, my heart thundering in my chest. I’d stay tucked deep inside his heart, safe and content, blissfully unaware of the troubles that invaded my mind.
His kiss was like a draught of life, purifying me of all ill will and igniting a longing that ran deep within me that I hadn’t even known was there.
He was against me, fully melded to my body. I ran my fingers through his damp hair, sure that I could live the rest of my life in this moment. That was, until his body shifted unexpectedly, sending a flare of passion through me. His eyes were heavily lidded as he tried to catch his breath.
“I want you to have me,” I whispered.
Blake let out a low growl.
He shook his head. “No, I will not take you like this.”
My brows knitted. “I realize we come from different worlds, but it really isn’t that serious for me.”
He held me close, his deep chuckle reverberating against my chest. “So readily the maiden offers her innocence to the altar of lust.”
“What’s wrong with that?” I breathed.
“Only beasts claim maidens upon an altar,” he said.
I grazed my lips against his, ensuring I had his attention. Sighing, I gave in. Perhaps he would hear me if I spoke his language.
“Lei qui eylarse vey sulnar, rui tular vi xicairn,” I said.
Then this is not lust, because you are no beast.
Blake rested his forehead against mine. “Not when I am with you, at least.”
Heat rose in my cheeks as his breath touched my skin.
“Then stay with me,” I whispered.
His kiss was smoldering, sending tendrils of passion rushing through me.
