2/2
Chapter 147
“Would you like to move to the dining area?” Rachel asked, her eyes soft in the dimming light. “I love this open floor plan. When
the baby comes, I’ll be able to cook and still see them playing in the living room.”
As she leaned down to arrange the table, her copper hair fell forward, her scent weaving into mine. The closeness was intoxicating. My tongue traced Rachel’s pussy, savoring her, while my fingers thrust into her vagina, drawing soft moans…
“Carter? Is everything okay?” Rachel asked, noticing that I had oned out.
I came back to my senses and took a deep breath. “I’m fine.”
“Maybe it’s the pollen affecting you too,” she joked. “Or perhaps you’re just tired from your border patrol.”
I nodded, though I knew it was neither. This constant feeling of impending danger, like something slipping beyond my control, had been with me all day…
“I made lasagna to celebrate the new house,” Rachel announced proudly. “Selena helped a little, and Scarlet insisted on setting the table.”
Scarlet appeared from the kitchen, carrying a basket of bread. Everything’s ready.”
Rachel lit candles on the dining table, the warm glow highlighting the light freckles across her nose and cheeks. She looked radiant in the simple blue dress, her pregnancy giving her an ethereal beauty that made my breath catch.
I pulled out her chair for her, leaning slightly closer than necessary. “You look beautiful,” I murmured, my hand brushing against hers.
The scent of flowers and satin filled my senses as I stood just inches from her face, close enough to feel her heartbeat quicken.
“Thank you, Carter,” she smiled, settling into her seat.
I had to take a deep breath again and conjure thoughts of Nathan–my anger toward that rival Alpha was the only thing strong enough to counteract my attraction to Rachel. It was the only way I could avoid sending Scarlet and Selena away and fucking Rachel right there on the dining table.
Scarlet brought out the remaining dishes before joining us. She, Selena, and I had champagne, while Rachel had fruit juice
due to her pregnancy.
“Your cooking surpasses Luna standards!” I exclaimed after taking my first bite. “This is excellent
Rachel blushed, her freckles becoming more prominent. “I’m glad you like it. I wanted to make something special to thank you for all your help and protection. Thank you for helping me move into this lovely home.”
My eyes flashed with possessiveness. “I’ll always be here to help you. In every way I can.”
I placed my hand over hers, my body temperature naturally higher than most. Her smile was warm, and I wondered if it was merely respect for an Alpha or something more. I let my hand linger on hers, fighting the urge to move up her arm, to mark her with my scent.
Finally, I forced myself to withdraw, aware of the others watching, and drained my champagne before pouring another
1/2
glass.
Once dinner concluded, Seleha and Scarlet cleaned up and bids goodnight. The house grew quiet, with only the sound of ocean waves and my heartbeat remaining.
Why don’t you rest while I play something for you on the plane?” Rachel suggested. “I remember you enjoy my music.”
“I’d love that, my little songbird,” I replied, the endearment slipping out naturally.
Rachel disappeared briefly, returning with blankets and pillows settled on the couch while she took her place at the harp. As her fingers touched the strings and her voice joined the melody, it was as if the Moon Goddess herself was whispering through her.
I worried I might not be able to control my Alpha instincts. My inner wolf was already howling for her, wanting to mark her as mine. But as her song continued, my eyes grew heavy.
In my half–conscious state, I heard Rachel whisper near my ear. Goodnight, Carter. Sleep well.”
Then darkness fell as she turned off the lights. I drifted into sleep.
Suddenly, I wasn’t lying on Rachel’s couch anymore. A cold silver blade pressed against my throat, and the musty air of the cave mingled with Nathan’s distinctive scent.
I knew immediately who it was: Nathan.
The silver hunting knife pressed against my throat was so sharp that the slightest movement forward would end my life.
