Page 354 of Scarbound

Another kiss.

“He went to therapy.”

Another.

“He learned a few things.”

“I can tell.”

“Mostly from you.”

Duri laughed.

Noeul pushed Duri’s jacket from his shoulders and let it fall. There was hunger between them now, but no fear beneath it. Duri’s hands settled naturally at Noeul’s waist. Firm. Familiar. Noeul leaned into the touch instead of enduring it. That small movement almost undid Duri.

Duri kissed him again, deeper this time, one hand sliding along Noeul’s back as Noeul’s fingers disappeared into his hair.

When Duri’s mouth found the sensitive skin beneath his ear, Noeul laughed softly and tilted his head to give him better access.

“That’s unfair.”

“What is?”

“You know I like that.”

Duri smiled against his skin. “I know a lot of things you like.”

“Aren’t you confident?”

“Shouldn’t I be?”

Noeul pulled back just enough to look at him. Duri’s green eyes were dark with desire, his breathing uneven.

And Noeul loved seeing it. Loved knowing he could do this to him.

He traced one finger slowly down Duri’s chest. “You should be.”

Duri caught him around the waist and lifted him without warning. Noeul laughed, wrapping his legs around him instinctively.

“Show-off.”

“You like it.”

“I do.”

Duri carried him toward the bedroom, kissing him between steps while Noeul’s laughter dissolved into his mouth.

By the time they reached the bed, Noeul’s hair was disheveled, his cheeks flushed, his eyes bright.

Alive.

Duri paused to admire him.

Noeul reached up, caught Duri behind the neck, and pulled him down.

“Don’t start thinking now.”

Duri laughed. “Bossy.”