I wrap my legs around him as he enters, slow and careful, in a burn that only heightens the desire.


    But he''s too careful.


    Too gentle.


    Too thoughtful.


    "Lucas," I whine, tightening my legs around him and yanking him in.


    His hips surge forward and the entire length of him sinks into me, filling me in a way that makes me feel complete.


    Whole.


    But all control he has is gone. He''d used what was left of it to try to ease his way in.


    Now it''s all hard, heavy thrusts and wild rhythm, with my body half off the bed and supported only by his hands on my hips, his fingers digging into my ass.


    I think I scream. I''m not sure. I''m dizzy over the pleasure as he hits that spot deep inside, a place that almost hurts every time he slams home.@@@@


    "Fuck, you feel so good, Ava," he groans, and I can''t answer.


    I can barely breathe.


    All I can do is moan and shove back against the bed to try and meet his every thrust, wanting it harder.


    Part of me wants to drag his head down to my shoulder and force a mating bite, but I manage to hold at least that part of me in check.


    "Ava," he groans, his voice rough with desire. "You''re driving me crazy."


    "I know," I interrupt, my voice soft but firm. "I got caught up in the moment. In the bond. But it doesn''t change what I said before. I still need space. Time to figure things out on my own."


    He stares at me for a long moment, his jaw clenched, his hands flexing at his sides. I brace myself for an argument, for him to try and persuade me to change my mind.


    But to my surprise, he takes a step back, holding up his hands in a gesture of surrender. "I understand," he says, though the words seem to pain him. "I don''t like it, but I understand. I''ll give you the space you need."


    Relief washes over me, mingled with a bittersweet ache. Part of me yearns to close the distance between us, to lose myself in his embrace once more. But I know that''s not the right path, not now.


    "Thank you," I whisper, my voice thick with emotion. "I know it''s not easy."


    He shakes his head, a wry smile tugging at the corner of his mouth. "Nothing about this is easy, Ava. But I meant what I said. I''ll wait for you, as long as it takes."


    The sincerity in his words, the depth of feeling in his eyes, sends a shiver down my spine. I know he means it, that he would move heaven and earth for me if I asked.


    But I can''t ask that of him. Not yet. Maybe not ever.


    He''s giving you what you want, Selene murmurs in my mind, her presence a soothing balm. Don''t feel guilty for taking it.


    I nod, more to myself than to her. She''s right. I need to focus on my own journey, my own growth. Lucas is strong enough to handle the distance, even if it hurts.


    "I should go," I say, my voice steadier than I feel. "Lisa''s waiting for me."


    Lucas nods, his expression carefully neutral. "Of course. I''ll have Kellan escort you back to the apartment."


    The mention of Kellan brings a fresh wave of anxiety. How much does he know about what just happened? Will he tell the others?


    As if sensing my thoughts, Lucas reaches out, his hand brushing against my cheek in a feather-light caress. "Don''t worry about Kellan. He''s discreet. And loyal. He won''t say anything."


    I lean into his touch for a brief moment, savoring the comfort it brings.