"We'll save that for after. You could die tomorrow just as easily as me."
The thought makes my blood freeze.
If her goodness is gone from this world, it will fall into darkness. I will give my last breath to protect her, to ensure that even if I don't survive, she will. My beast growls in agreement. If I die, knowing she is safe will provide me with solace.
A chill breaks out along my skin, and I need her warm mouth to chase it away.
"Live with me tonight," I beg. "Please, Queenie."
My fingers travel into her hair, shifting through the silky strands. Arden's toes curl against the tips of my boots. Her breasts pillow between us as she tips her head farther back.
"I've found riches and splendor most men would sell their souls for. Hidden lands and jewels of inconceivable beauty." I lower my head. "All of it is trivial compared to how much I want you. I ache, Queenie. I’m burning alive."
A soft moan falls from between her lips.
"I feel the same," she whimpers. "You areeverywhere. Consuming me."
"Good." I grin. "You really make a man work for it, Queenie."
Arden giggles as my thumb teases her lips. Her lashes flutter and I can hear the rapid pound of her heartbeat. It matches mine.
"Have you ever been kissed before?" I raise a brow. "Do fairies kiss?"
"Yes," she whispers. "And no, I haven't."
All mine. I nearly start purring along with my beast.
Every part of her belongs to me. At least for now.
Despite my need for her, I won't demand she remain chaste forever. Not when I'm still planning on leaving. I'll show her the pleasure she will one day find with another. Someone who can be by her side when I can’t.
The thought makes my stomach turn.
I shake off the dread of our impending goodbye, refusing to consider it for tonight. This moment is ours. What happens tomorrow has no place between us.
"I fear, Queenie, every male after me will be a let down."
Her green eyes glimmer.
"There will be no else."
It pleases me more than it should to hear her breathy confession. I want to keep her and be the only one to taste her and feel her. To own her pleasure as she owns my heart, but it is unfair.
Another will bring her pleasure.
Not as extraordinary as the kind I plan on bestowing her, but she has spent centuries alone to honor her betrothed's memory. I can’t steal more of her time by demanding she not take a lover—a husband—when I'm gone.
I shake my head, but Arden cups my cheek.
"Please." Her warm breath bathes my lips. "For tonight, let's pretend this never has to end."
I'm all too happy to oblige.
My hands curl into her waist, bringing her flush against me. Her nipples press into my chest. I feel every one of her delicious curves. I could tear her silk dress with one harsh tug.
My need to see her naked is more pressing than my next breath.
"Whatever you want, Queenie. I am your servant after all."
