Dahlia’s POV
“That was incredible!” I squealed as we pulled into the pack house driveway, still buzzing from the excitement.
“Maybe next time, we can try some longer trails,” I added, glancing over just in time to catch Logan’s scowl.
Strange. Maybe off-roading wasn’t his thing.
“Did you have fun today, baby girl?” he asked, smoothly changing the subject.
“I had the best time! The lake was gorgeous, and everyone was so welcoming! Hanging out with your friends was amazing,” I gushed. “Thank you for including me.”
I meant every word. The moment they suggested a beach trip, I’d been thrilled. Crystal Moon didn’t have one, so it was a rare treat. The day had been perfect-sun, laughter, and the warmth of easy companionship.
Amara and Thalassa had been nothing but kind, pulling me effortlessly into their close-knit circle. I had already bonded with Nikolai over warrior training, and though Bastian was a bit reserved, he had been warm and easy to talk to. Then there were the twins. It was impossible not to enjoy their presence, though our dynamic remained a delicate balance between comfort and something far more intense.
“Of course, we wanted you here!” Liam exclaimed. “You belong with us!”
I wasn’t quite ready to accept that truth, but the sentiment warmed me nonetheless. Both brothers grinned, satisfied with my answer, and the sight sent a flutter through my stomach.
“Ugh! I need to clean up. I have sand in places sand should never be!” I joked, eager for a distraction.
“Come on, Angel. Let’s get you inside,” Liam said, grabbing my hand and tugging me along.
Back in my room, I made a beeline for the bathroom, more than ready for a long soak in that massive tub. The guys had suggested a movie night, which sounded like the perfect way to unwind, but I needed at least an hour to myself first. I turned on the tap, letting the warm water fill the tub, then slipped off my damp bikini, hanging it to dry. Grabbing my favorite bubble bath, I poured a generous amount into the water, watching the foam rise almost to the edge before stepping in.
The moment I sank into the steaming water, a deep, contented sigh escaped me. Heat seeped into my muscles, melting away the tension, while the floral scent of the suds wrapped around me like a gentle embrace. My mind drifted, painting a serene image of lying in a field of wildflowers, staring at the sky without a care in the world.
But my wolf had other plans.
Blue had been quiet all day, content to observe. Now, she stirred, eager to replay the moments I had tried to push aside. And I had noticed them too. The way their muscles flexed beneath sun-kissed skin. How water droplets clung to them, glistening in the light. The way their tattoos, dark and intricate, hinted at something both dangerous and alluring.
Gods among men.
I hadn’t even realized my fingers had started moving until the sharp tug at my nipple sent a jolt of pleasure straight to my core. A rush of images flooded my mind-thoughts I shouldn’t be having. Thoughts of tracing my tongue over the rivulets of water running down their chiseled abs, right along the deep V that disappeared beneath their swim shorts. Of the way their strong hands had gripped my thighs, holding me effortlessly on their shoulders as we played.
My thighs were sensitive-so sensitive it had taken every ounce of willpower not to shudder at their touch. Just the memory of it had my body aching, warmth pooling between my legs. My fingers trailed over my skin, teasing, avoiding where I needed them most. I let the anticipation build, savoring the slow, deliberate exploration.
When I finally gave in, slipping a finger inside while my other hand circled my swollen clit, the pleasure was instant. Whimpers and soft moans filled the room, swallowed by the steamy air. The tension coiled tighter and tighter until it snapped, pleasure crashing through me with breathtaking force.
For a moment, I lay still, chest rising and falling as I caught my breath. I had pleasured myself before, but never like this. Never with such reckless abandon, allowing my fantasies of them to take full control. And it scared me-how easily I surrendered to the thought of them, how much I wanted to feel their hands on me instead.
I took my time rinsing off, lathering my skin, washing my hair, and shaving my legs, lost in thought. Blue purred in contentment, reveling in the connection we had felt, however indirect. She had sulked earlier over my refusal to let the twins sleep beside us last night. Now, she was smug, already anticipating tonight’s closeness.
I would have to deal with last night’s emotions later, unpack the reasons for my hesitation. But for now, I allowed myself to simply exist in this moment of indulgence.
Reluctantly, I climbed out of the now-lukewarm water, wrapping myself in one of the ridiculously fluffy towels. I had spent far longer in the bath than I’d planned, and I knew they were waiting. I dried off quickly and rummaged for something to wear.
The twins had suggested watching the movie in Liam’s room, knowing the pack’s common area would be full of people. It was a considerate thought. And, if I was being honest, I already knew I’d likely end up falling asleep in there.
Still riding the high from earlier, I decided to test their patience just a little. I chose a black silk camisole trimmed with lace and matching shorts that clung to my curves. The cherry print-innocent yet teasing-was just enough to keep them guessing. One last look in the mirror, satisfied, and I padded down the hall to Liam’s room.
Before I could knock, the door swung open.
Two sets of hungry eyes raked over me, dark and burning. Their wolves flashed silver, battling for dominance. Blue pressed forward in my mind, eager to bask in their presence.
Liam exhaled slowly, while Logan let out a low, appreciative growl.
In an instant, they had me trapped between them, their warmth pressing in from both sides. Liam’s nose buried into the crook of my neck as he inhaled deeply, while Logan fisted a hand in my hair, breathing me in from behind. I had learned enough to know this was their way of settling their wolves.
“What took you so long, Angel?” Liam murmured, his lips brushing against my skin.
“So naughty, making us wait,” Logan added before I could answer, his voice a rich, teasing purr. “If I didn’t know better, I’d say you were begging for a punishment.”
A sharp breath hitched in my throat, my body betraying me with a shiver. Blue let out a sultry growl, clearly intrigued by the idea.
“S-sorry!” I stammered, but the moment passed quickly, my sass returning. “I just couldn’t resist a long soak. The warm water, the bubbles-it felt too good to leave.”
I smirked inwardly, watching the way Logan’s jaw tensed. Let them dwell on that image for a while.
He stiffened behind me. “You’re playing with fire, baby girl.”
And I was starting to think I wanted to get burned.