tongue. I wrapped my arms around his neck tightly, and gave myself completely over to him.
Kissing him was like nothing I’d ever experienced before. There was no hesitancy or holding back. We gave everything, laying our hearts and souls bare. Each time we connected was something deeper, forging a stronger bond.
Tangling my hand in his hair, I forgot the world. I forgot earlier events. There wasn’t anything but him. Reluctantly breaking the kiss, both of us breathing heavy, I peered into his face, enjoying the flushed look I found there. It was an incredible feeling knowing Mason reacted the same way.
“Wow.” I leaned back in, unable to resist one last brush against his mouth.
“Exactly.” He smiled, his finger moving to sweep a stray strand of hair away from my eyes. He returned my kiss with one of his own. “I was serious when I said I can’t wait. It’ll mean it’s official… I’ll be yours. Forever.”
“And I’ll be yours. We can finally start our lives together.”
Moving in for one last goodnight kiss, Mason reluctantly stepped back, my body feeling his absence immediately.
“Sleep well, sweetheart. Call me if you need me.”
I watched him walk down the hall, and then stop in front of his own door. With one final wave, I entered into my bedroom, undressing as I moved about. It had been quite a day, and it didn’t take long after my head hit the pillow before I was asleep.
Chapter Three
I stumbled into a busy kitchen, rubbing my eyes as I tried to wake up. Not paying much attention, I walked over to the refrigerator and started pulling out the ingredients for my breakfast—orange juice, strawberry yogurt, bacon, and eggs. It was my daily ritual, and I could’ve done it blindfolded.
The house was big enough to have some of the pack members live on the property if they wanted, and many took advantage of Mason’s offer. There was safety in numbers and a definite appeal in not having to hide who we were from the prying eyes of neighbors. I was used to hearing people move about as they started their day, but not the instant silence that followed my entrance.
Looking up from the counter where I stood, I immediately saw why. Amber was seated at one of the tables, surrounded by three others, deep in conversation. From the smiles and laughter erupting from the group, it wasn’t hard to realize she was well liked and busy catching up.
The rest of the room sat quietly, food forgotten as their gazes darted back and forth between Amber and I. I didn’t doubt the word had already spread through the pack, especially details over my loud reaction from last night, and they were waiting to see my response. I wouldn’t be surprised if they were wondering whether I’d try to rip out her throat while searching for a spoon for my breakfast.
Offering them a smile and quick nod, I signaled everything was okay. The tension in the room seemed to diminish as everyone went back to eating. During this, Amber had sat quietly, watching the room. Excusing herself from her group, she made her way over to me. I silently willed her to turn around because I wasn’t ready for my morning to be ruined by whatever she had to say.
“Did you sleep well?”
“I did, thank you. And you?” I spoke with a level voice, reminding myself the importance of being polite. I’d found a note on my pillow from Mason saying he was leaving to talk with the Council, and if things went the way we hoped, we’d only have to deal with Amber for a few more hours. I could do anything for that long.
The feeling she was up to something hadn’t disappeared over night. In fact, it had grown stronger. Every pair of eyes on us—watching—and I was adamant I wouldn’t show my concerns.
“I tossed and turned, but I expected that with everything that’s happened.” She reached for the bottle of orange juice, and began to pour a glass. Raising my eyebrows at her helping herself to my things, it was plain to see she was nervous, and I