A Fate of Wrath & Flame (Fate & Flame 1)

“I can’t help it.”

“Neither can I anymore, it would seem.”

The headiness that was building in the tiny nook before Bexley and Kaders arrived slams into us like a thick fog that I can’t see past.

I’m unsure who moves first, but our mouths find each other within the inky shield of our cowls. Zander’s lips are supple as they explore, at first with a hint of hesitancy, but then with the eagerness of a long-anticipated kiss, deepening as his torso presses against mine.

It’s nearly as shocking as the first time this happened, though so much has changed between us since. He is no longer a stranger to me, and it would seem he doesn’t wish me dead.

But I haven’t forgotten what he is.

Curiosity overwhelms me and I slip my tongue into his mouth to drag across his top teeth, looking for the evidence. What would it feel like to have him unleash those on me?

“Do not tempt me,” he growls, shifting my body down so his hips fit squarely between my thighs. The heat of his hands clutching my backside burns as he grinds against me. I may not be able to read his lust through his racing pulse, but I can feel the proof of his arousal. He is as affected by me as I am by him.

I vaguely hear a whistle, but I ignore it, deepening our kiss, sliding my hand into his cloak to gather a fistful of silky hair. A second, more urgent whistle follows.

Zander breaks free and releases his grip, settling me onto the ground. Several long moments hang between us, his breathing ragged as he appears to be collecting himself. As am I, I realize, my own breath coming in short, heady pants.

“We have to go.” As quickly as that moment between us came, it is over.

I let him lead me out by the hand, my head swirling in a cloud of exhilaration and confusion.