Chapter eighty two
I stirred awake, my lashes fluttering open. A smile played on my lips as I saw Rafe sleeping peacefully beside me, his chiseled features relaxed in slumber. His dark lashes fanned against his tanned skin, full lips parted slightly. Raven hair tumbled across his brow. He looked almost boyish in sleep, younger and untroubled.
My heart swelled with love for him, this strong, passionate man who had captured my heart so completely. Last night came back to me in flashes – Rafe finally confessing his true feelings, taking me in his arms and showing me with his body what he felt in his soul. I blushed, remembering the exquisite ways he had pleasured me, worshipping every inch of my skin until I shattered in ecstasy. Never had I felt so cherished, so adored.
Unable to resist touching him, I gently brushed a lock of inky hair back from his forehead. His lashes lifted and sleepy green eyes met mine, desire instantly kindling between us as awareness returned. The air crackled with tension, our bodies instantly attuned to each other.
“You look so beautiful in the morning light,” Rafe murmured, voice husky from sleep. Color heated my cheeks at the open admiration in his gaze as it roamed over me.
“I was afraid when I woke that this had all been a perfect, impossible dream,” he continued softly, reaching out to cup my cheek. “But then I saw you here, looking at me like that, and I knew I’m the luckiest man alive.”
Rafe pulled me tightly against him and I melted into his strong arms, reveling in his warmth and solidness. This was real. We were real. Whatever challenges lay ahead, I knew we would face them together, and our love would only grow stronger. In his embrace, I was home.
“Rafe,” I said seriously, gazing into his eyes. “I promise, I’m never leaving you again. I want to be your Luna, your queen. I’m ready to face the other candidates, even my cruel stepsister Kelly. This is where I belong – with you, by your side, always.”
Rafe’s emerald eyes blazed with intensity as he gripped my face in his hands. “I love you, Freya. More than anything in this world or the next. I swear to the moon goddess, no one will ever harm you again. You’ll always be safe here with me at the palace. I’ll protect you with my life.”
Tears pricked my eyes at his fierce declaration. “I’m so sorry I put myself in danger, I never meant to worry you-”
Rafe cut off my apology by capturing my mouth in a searing, passionate kiss that made my toes curl. I whimpered, clinging to his shoulders as the kiss deepened, our tongues tangling urgently. Need pulsed through my veins, desire clouding my mind. Nothing existed except Rafe, his touch, his scent, the press of his body against mine…
A loud, insistent knocking at the door jolted us apart, chests heaving. Rafe let out a low growl of frustration at the interruption. Blushing, I hastily adjusted the sheets to cover myself while Rafe stalked to the door, not bothering with a shirt. He wrenched it open to reveal a grinning Connor.
“Sorry to interrupt, lovebirds,” Rafe’s Beta said cheerfully, not looking apologetic in the slightest. “But we need to get a move on if we want to make it back to the palace before nightfall.”
If looks could kill, Connor would be a smoldering pile of ashes from the murderous glare Rafe leveled at him. His hands flexed at his sides as if imagining them around his friend’s throat. I had to stifle a laugh, despite my mortification. Poor Connor had no idea how close he was to getting pummeled for his bad timing. But duty called, and we had to return to face what awaited us at the palace…
“Good morning, Connor,” I said brightly, hoping my flushed cheeks weren’t too obvious. “We’ll be ready to go shortly. Give us just five minutes to get dressed.”
Connor’s gaze flickered between Rafe and I knowingly. “Sure thing. Everyone’s eager to have you both back safe and sound. We’ll be waiting outside when you’re ready.” With a playful salute, he backed out of the doorway, shutting it behind him.
As soon as we were alone, Rafe’s arms enveloped me from behind, his nose nuzzling into my hair. “Stay with me just a little longer, my love,” he murmured, his voice a husky plea that sent shivers down my spine. “I’m not ready to share you with the rest of the world quite yet.”
Laughing, I turned in his embrace and gently pushed against his bare chest. “You know we can’t keep them waiting, Rafe. There will be plenty of time for this later, I promise.” I punctuated my words with a quick, teasing kiss. “Now let me up so I can make myself presentable.”
Rafe heaved an exaggerated sigh but released me, his eyes darkening with promise. “I’m holding you to that, Freya. The very second we’re alone again…”
“I’m counting on it.” I winked before slipping out of bed to hurriedly dress and attempt to tame my mussed hair. My skin still tingled everywhere he had touched me.
Hand in hand, Rafe and I emerged from our hideaway into the crisp morning air. Our friends and guards had formed a loose circle, their faces brightening upon seeing us. Addy rushed forward to pull me into a fierce hug, mindful of my recovering injuries.
“Freya! Oh, I told Connor I would wait for you,” she exclaimed, pulling back to examine me critically. “How are you feeling? Did you rest well?” Her eyebrows waggled suggestively and I felt my face flame.
“Much better, thank you,” I managed, not quite meeting her gaze. “It’s amazing what a good night’s sleep can do.”
“Mm-hmm. I’ll bet.” Addy smirked, her eyes darting between Rafe and I. She lowered her voice to a conspiratorial whisper. “You must tell me everything later! I want details.”
I swatted her arm, glancing nervously at Rafe who was watching our exchange with an amused smile playing about his lips. “Hush, you!” I hissed. “I have no idea what you’re talking about.”
“Uh-huh. Sure you don’t.” Addy giggled, linking her arm through mine as our odd little procession began the trek back to the palace. “I know that look, Freya. You’re positively glowing! It’s written all over your face.”
My eyes met Rafe’s over my shoulder and the heat in his gaze turned my insides to molten honey. Memories of our passionate night danced through my mind and I ducked my head to hide my smile. Let Addy think what she wanted – I knew the truth of what had passed between us. The words we had spoken, the promises made.
As the Crimson palace appeared in the distance, I squared my shoulders, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. With Rafe by my side and the support of loyal friends like Addy and Connor, I would happily face any storm. This was only the beginning of our story, and I was determined to fight for our happy ending.
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