Chapter Forty One. 🌶🌶

I awaken on a hard, warm chest, the scent of salted caramel deeply embedded in my nostrils. A soft groan escapes my lips as I wiggle, and a low growl vibrates from beneath me, accompanied by a gentle hand rubbing my back. Oh. That’s not the only thing nestled inside me.

I sit up slowly, a whimper escaping as I realize Theo is still seated within me, his warmth enveloping me. I glance down, taking in the sight of him—his arm draped over his eyes, a sleepy smile playing on his lips, while his other hand rests possessively on my thighs.

My core tightens around him instinctively, and I bite my lip as a wave of arousal washes over me like a glove. Unable to resist, I begin to roll my hips, pleasure zapping up my spine as my head tilts back in bliss.

A growl rumbles from Theo, and I look down to find his firm hands holding my hips, guiding me with a faster tempo. His face is soft with sleep, but his eyes burn with possessive admiration. “Such a good girl,” he growls, and the words send shivers through me.

The pleasure builds rapidly, and as I lose myself in the sensations, my body responds eagerly. I feel the heat rising within me, and just as I reach my peak, I’m overwhelmed by a rush of ecstasy that sends me tumbling back into blissful sleep, my head resting against his chest.

~~~~

Sunlight filters through the curtains, casting a warm glow over the room as I slowly wake up. Stretching out on the soft sheets, I notice the absence of Theo beside me; the bed feels a little too spacious without his warmth.

As I sit up, a dull ache reminds me of the previous night’s indulgences—the pleasure, the connection, and the intensity of our intimacy. I glance around the room, still basking in the afterglow, when something catches my eye on the nightstand.

Curious, I lean over and pick up a neatly folded piece of paper. Unfolding it, I see Theo’s handwriting, and a smile spreads across my face.

Hey, beautiful,

I had to run some errands for the club this morning. I’ll be back as soon as I can. I left you some aspirin and a glass of water to help with any aches you might be feeling. Take care of yourself my sweet baby. I'll see you tonight.

—Theo

A warmth spreads through me as I read his words, a mix of affection and care. I glance at the glass of water beside the aspirin, already feeling grateful for his thoughtfulness.

I take the glass and pop the pills, knowing they’ll help soothe the discomfort between my legs from last night’s passionate escapades. A rush of memories floods my mind—how incredible it felt to be so connected, and how I still crave more.

After freshening up, I decide to make the most of the time I have before Theo returns. I wander into the kitchen, the familiar scents of breakfast lingering in the air. The house is quiet, but the warmth of the pack house wraps around me like a comforting hug.

I pull out some fresh fruit, slicing up a few pieces to make a small breakfast for myself.

With a smile, I internally seek out the bonds within myself. Theo is at that same distance I feel whenever Elias goes to the club. A low whine involuntarily escapes my lips, the ache of missing him already settling in. I shove a piece of apple in my mouth, trying to push the feeling down. Shaking my head, I focus on where Elias is, and shock washes over me as I feel big, warm hands resting on my hips, followed by soft lips in my hair.

“Hi, baby girl. How's it going?” Elias’s sleep-filled voice rumbles from behind me, wrapping around me like a comforting blanket.

I smile, turning in his embrace, my Omega soothed by his presence. I nuzzle into his neck, feeling the tension melt away. “It was amazing,” I whisper.

“Mmm, I felt you enjoyed yourself multiple times. I almost crashed the car,” he teases, his breath warm against my skin.

I giggle, pulling back to meet his gaze. “I’m sorry,” I say, my tone playful.

“No, you’re not,” he laughs, the warmth in his eyes making my heart flutter. “Poor Micah is still passed out.”

I roll my eyes in mock exasperation. “He loved every second, I assure you. He’s bonded to Theo, remember?”

Elias reaches around me, stealing an apple slice. His eyes widen in delight as he pops it into his mouth. “Oh, I know,” he winks, and somehow I still flush under his gaze, making him smile warmly at me as he turns to the coffee pot behind him.

“So,” he says, as I finish my fruit, “do you work today?”

I shake my head. “No.”

I think about my earlier conversation with Theo and what happened during my last shift, and I decide to share everything with Elias as he starts to cook a basic bacon and egg breakfast.

His expression shifts to one of concern, the frown not leaving his face. I can feel his worry through the bond, but there’s also an assuredness that we’ll be okay, and that settles me considerably. “I want to know what other ways I can be registered, though,” I finish, setting the table.

He nods thoughtfully. “Well, there are only three legal ways. The most encouraged is completing academy training,” he says, rolling his eyes. “Then there’s your parents. They can make what is essentially an extension status. They will be held accountable for any rowdy orgies your heat or slick may start,” he continues, his tone dripping with sarcasm.

I grimace at that thought, and I gesture for him to continue. “Or the option of marriage. To an Alpha.”

His serious gaze meets mine, and I swallow, the weight of his words sinking in. “Oh,” I say, feeling the implications of that statement.

Elias bites his lip, looking away momentarily. “I’m gonna go get Micah for breakfast. Will you text Callum to see if he’s around?” he asks, walking backward toward the stairs.

I nod, feeling a mix of emotions swirling within me.

Callum doesn’t answer my text, and I assume he’s either working or at school. Just then, Micah emerges from his room behind Elias, a wide grin spreading across his face. He drags me over and pulls me into a big kiss, enveloping me in a warm snuggle.

We settle down to breakfast, but I can’t shake the feeling of awkwardness lingering in the air. I glance at the food but my mind is elsewhere.

Just as I lift my head to say something, Elias winces, his expression shifting to one of understanding. “I know, I know. I’m assuming you’re stressing about the marriage thing?”

I nod, feeling the weight of his words settle heavily on my shoulders. “Look, I’m sure it will all work out,” he reassures me, his tone calming. “I’ll talk to Theo tonight, and we’ll see what he says.”

I nod again, though I still feel a bit unsatisfied. The thought of marriage feels daunting, and I wish I had more clarity. Micah leans over, noticing my unease, and kisses my cheek warmly, a gesture that immediately lifts my spirits.