Total pages in book: 22
Estimated words: 19506 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 98(@200wpm)___ 78(@250wpm)___ 65(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 19506 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 98(@200wpm)___ 78(@250wpm)___ 65(@300wpm)
Rider tucked the blanket around me and once again, guilt settled in my stomach. “You’re not going to sit in the chair all night, are you? I’ll be okay. You need to sleep too.”
“If you’re sure you’re okay, I’ll sleep on the couch.”
I’d seen his couch, and there was no way it would be comfortable for his big body. “You need to be in the bed.”
Rider’s eyes darkened, and I didn’t understand until he asked, “Are you sure it’s okay that I lay with you?”
That wasn’t what I meant; I was suggesting that Rider take the bed while I went out to the sofa, but now that his words were out there, they had my heart racing with need. I wanted him next to me, but my mouth was dry and my words escaped me, so I nodded and scooted over.
Rider eased into the bed next to me, laying on his side so that he looked into my eyes. My heart thumped so loudly, it echoed in my ears. He slowly reached up and ran his fingers through my hair, and when it caused me to shiver, he pulled the quilt further onto my body.
“Is this okay?” he asked, resting his arm across my body. His caring nature and the fact that he was checking my comfort with every step only made me want his presence more. He made me feel secure and safe, and the thought of leaving him to sleep on the sofa hurt my chest worse than the wreck had. It was confusing and weird, but wonderful.
“Sleep well,” Rider offered. “I’ll be right here if you need anything.” His hand traced up and down my back, lulling me into complete relaxation. I wanted to soak up the feeling as long as possible, but I soon fell into a deep sleep.
Chapter Six
Rider
I gazed at my beautiful mate, thanking Fate for the gift while thinking about the roller coaster of emotions I’d been riding since we met; from the joy of seeing him for the first time, my jealousy when I saw the other shifter, the terror that came when he wrecked, and the heartwrenching sadness as I heard about his past.
But everything was worth it, because now, as I held my future in my arms, I was overtaken by indescribable joy. I was gifted with a partner to care for, love, and protect, and I would dedicate my life to doing so.
Trey’s eyes slowly fluttered open, and the dark brown orbs warmed me to my core. “Good morning,” I greeted, and he gave me a pretty smile.
“Good morning.”
“How did you sleep?”
“Like a rock. I don’t think I ever slept that well at my apartment with all of the city noise.”
I’d like to think that I had something to do with it too, but I kept that to myself. “How are you feeling? Do you need more medicine?” I didn’t want my man to be in pain.
Trey wiggled in the bed before shaking his head. “I actually feel pretty good. My side is a little tender, but it’s nothing I can't handle.”
“Would you like some breakfast? I can fry some eggs if you’d like.”
“Nah, I’m still full from our late night burgers.” As much as I wanted to provide for him, I didn’t want to overstuff him, either.
Trey sat up and stretched his arms over his head, and I tried not to stare at the sliver of stomach that showed between his t-shirt and black jeans. Even that one inch of skin was enough to make my mouth water. My body craved his, but I would never push too far or make him uncomfortable.
He gave me a guilty smile and said, “I know you don’t want to hear it, but I need a smoke.”
While I hated the idea of him putting something harmful in his body, I understood his need. I nodded and as I climbed out of the bed to allow him up, I came up with an idea.
“Do you feel like taking a walk? I can show you the area; it’s beautiful this time of year.”
“That sounds really nice. I’ll be ready in just a few minutes.”
Trey headed for the front door, and I gave him some privacy while I slipped on a pair of hiking boots. My sensitive nose could smell when he finished his cigarette, and I joined him outside by the cavern entry.
“Do your friends live there?” Trey asked, motioning to the two other doors next to mine.
I nodded and pointed to the far door. “Ridge and Zane live there, and Rowdy and Grayson split their time between the middle cavern and a small cabin in the woods.”
I gestured towards a sloped path which led down the side of the mountain and asked, “May I hold your hand?” The angle was steep and I wanted to guide my mate, but I also just wanted to touch him.