He pulled Cullen even closer, winding his arms around him and slipping his leg between his to intertwine them as much as possible. Even in his sleep, Cullen’s body reacted to him, his heart racing a little faster even as their breathing moved to match.
How many nights had he taken control of that little’s shit’s body to hold Cullen this way? How many times had he given up a chance at freedom just for a night of holding this brat close? He should have realized a long time ago what that meant.
Walker had never deserved to have him lying beside him. Had never deserved a single moment of Cullen’s attention or affection. Leviathan would make sure he didn’t screw it up the same way.
He nuzzled closer to him, still feeling as if it wasn’t closeenough.
Mine.The word pulsed through him, had him tightening his hold.He’s mine.
46
He was still curled tightly into Leviathan’s arms when he woke, the heat between them almost stifling. In the best way. He shifted and squirmed back against him, closing his eyes as a smile fell across his lips.
The things he’d shown Leviathan last night, the intention he’d let him see in his mind…he had no plans of leaving. He hadn’t for quite a while. Dumb as that may be.
But this…whatever it was…it wasn’t what it had been in the beginning. There was no more fear his life was on the edge. No more worry about whether Leviathan would hurt him or cast him aside. He hadn’t thought about home in weeks. Hadn’t thought about Walker for even longer.
He knew now that whatever they’d had back then…that wouldn’t have lasted, even if Leviathan hadn’t interfered.
Yes, they had loved each other. Yes, they had been together for years and it had been comfortable, if not totally enjoyable, but…they hadn’t been right for each other. It shouldn’t have ended like it did, but it had been a necessary break. Leviathan had known it and had forced it upon him and Cullen was…grateful. He hadn’t realized a relationship could be so…happy.
Perfect.Leviathan was always whispering to him. It was perfect.
An odd, nice change from what he’d had before.
And to stay here…to chase that perfect life…it was exciting… And a little terrifying.
But he wanted it. So badly.
I’ll make sure you don’t regret it.
A soft chuckle escaped him. “Are you ever going to just let me have personal time to think?”
“I think not.” Leviathan whispered against his neck. “Not now that you’ve said you’ll stay.” He nuzzled him. “Your mind is my favorite place to be.”
“Is it?” He grinned, catching his hand as it slid down his stomach. “I can think of at least two other places you prefer.”
Leviathan laughed. The sound was so unexpectedly joyful that something squeezed tight around Cullen’s heart. He started to turn to face him, but paused when several fierce aches shot through his body. Leviathan chuckled and nuzzled against him again.
“Good. I was hoping you wouldn’t heal in your sleep.”
“It feels like I was hit by a damn truck.” He groaned as he shifted again. “What did you do to me last night?”
“Nothing I haven’t done to you before.” He assured him, kissing his shoulder.
Seconds later he had sprang up out of the bed, kicking the blanket aside before scooping Cullen into his arms. “Bath time!”
“Hey!” He cried, shocked. “Put me down! What’s wrong with you?”
“You’re filthy.” He murmured as he headed towards the bathroom. “And I’m sure you won’t be able to walk yet. So just let me carry you.” He grinned. Water splashed softly in the tub in the center of the room as they entered. “Let me take care of you for a while.”
“Like an annoying momma bird.” He scoffed, crossing his arms as his face grew warm.
Leviathan chuckled softly, settling him into the steaming water. Cullen winced at the sting but quickly relaxed back against the tub, closing his eyes. Seconds later, Leviathan had joined him, sitting across from him just as he had that first time they’d taken a bath together.
“Is that Christmas festival still going on today, do you think?” Leviathan asked after a few quiet minutes.
“I’m not sure.” He mumbled, sinking a little lower into the water. “I hope so.”
