Page 28 of Hunter's Moon
“Well, this is cozy,” I tease, trying to ignore how safe I felt in Tharion’s embrace.
Tharion’s low chuckle rumbled through his chest. “Enjoying the ride?”
I stepped back, instantly missing his warmth. “Oh yes, nothing like a death trap elevator to really get the blood pumping.”
His gaze gleamed with amusement. “We’ll be fine. I’m sure this old girl’s tougher than she looks.”
As if on cue, the elevator shuddered violently. I grabbed the railing, knuckles white.
“You were saying?”
Tharion shrugged, completely unfazed. “A little excitement keeps life interesting.”
I could only marvel at his calm. “So, what’s our next move once we reach the surface?”
“Get to my ship as quickly and quietly as possible,” Tharion replied, his expression turning serious. “The less attention we draw, the better.”
I nodded, chewing my lip. “Maybe Dr. Heylarth can help. He’ll be worried sick, and he might know what’s happening back on Mithond.”
Tharion’s brow furrowed. “It’s risky. Any communication could be traced.”
“I know, but he’s like family. I can’t just disappear without a word.”
Tharion studied me for a long moment, then sighed. “Alright. We’ll find a secure way to reach out to him. But it has to be brief, understand?”
Relief washed over me. “Thank you.”
The elevator continued its halting journey upward. I could feel Tharion’s gaze on me, heavy with unspoken thoughts.
“There’s... another option we should consider.”
I turned to face him, curiosity piqued. “What do you mean?”
Tharion took a step closer. My breath caught as he towered over me, his presence overwhelming in the confined space.
“I could claim you as my mate,” he said, the words making me swallow hard. “No one in their right mind would dare challenge a Vinduthi’s chosen partner.”
My heart raced. “Claim me? As in...”
Tharion’s hand cupped my cheek, his touch surprisingly gentle. “It would involve a mark, here.” His fingers trailed down to the junction of my neck and shoulder. “A permanent bond, declaring you as mine to all who see it.”
My mind froze, torn between desire and uncertainty. “That’s... a big step.”
“It would keep you safe,” Tharion murmured, his face inching closer to mine. “And I find myself... reluctant to let you go.”
Before I could respond, Tharion’s lips brushed against my neck, right where he’d indicated the mark would go. A soft cry escaped me as he nuzzled the sensitive skin, his pointed canines grazing ever so lightly.
“Tharion...” I breathed, my body betraying me as I leaned into his touch.
The elevator lurched again, snapping me back to reality. I placed a hand on Tharion’s chest, gently pushing him back.
“Let’s escape this place first,” I decided, my voice shaky. “It’s not a decision to make lightly.”
Tharion nodded, respect and something else – disappointment? – flickering in his eyes. “Of course. The offer stands, should you choose to accept it.”
The air between us crackled with tension as the elevator continued its ascent. I found myself hyper-aware of Tharion’s every movement, every breath. Part of me wanted to throw caution to the wind and accept his offer, to lose myself in the safety and passion he promised.
But the rational part of my brain screamed caution. I barely knew this man – this alien – and yet he’d already turned my world upside down. Could I really trust him with my life, my future?