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Too soon the music ends, leaving us flushed and panting. As we catch our breath, I become aware of Thale waiting patiently nearby, his strong features softened by affection.
I reach for my sturdy oak, drawn like a flower turning toward the sun. His earthy scent envelops me as I nestle into the shelter of his arms.
"You honor us all, dear one," Thale rumbles, pride resonating through our bond. His massive hand splays over my still-flat belly. "Soon our child will grow strong within you."
ChapterSeventeen
My breath catches at the promise in his words. We haven't spoken of children, but now the possibility quickens my pulse. To carry Thale's babe, nurture a new life from our love...
Overcome by emotion, I pull his bearded face down to mine in a fierce kiss. Thale responds ardently, big hands gently framing my face as if I am infinitely precious. This steadfast man is my rock, my heart—my mate.
Eventually we draw back just enough to catch our breath, still clinging together. Thale's earthy scent and solid strength surround me. As long as I have this, I can weather any storm.
By unspoken consent, we begin walking hand in hand between the shadowed trees toward our cabin. The sounds of lingering celebration fade behind us. Tonight we seek a different intimacy.
Within the cozy cabin, Thale builds up the fire until warmth and golden light fill every corner. The flames cast flickering shadows over his powerful frame as he turns to me, forest green eyes glowing.
He crosses the room in three long strides and gathers me close once more. I revel in the feel of his muscular body pressed to mine, separated only by the thin barrier of clothing. My nerves thrum with anticipation.
"My Rina," Thale murmurs, voice rough with emotion. "Let me worship every inch of you tonight."
"Yes," I whisper. "I want that, Thale. I want to have a baby with you."
His big hand splays possessively over my still-flat belly, thumb stroking reverently. "Soon our child will grow strong within you," he promises solemnly, bringing his hands up to my face.
His big hands frame my face so tenderly. I cover them with my own, blinking back sudden tears. This formidable man could tear the very earth asunder, yet he cherishes me as the most precious thing in his world.
"Please, my love," I whisper. "Give me your seed and make me swell with your babe."
No more words are needed. Still cradling my face, Thale lowers us both gently down before the fire. I surrender completely as he begins unwrapping me like a priceless gift, calloused fingers surprisingly deft.
Soon we're naked, skin rimmed by firelight. Thale's heated gaze takes in every hollow and curve of my body, desire kindling in his pale eyes. I shiver pleasantly under that intense scrutiny, craving more.
Dipping his head, Thale begins laying reverent kisses along my throat, my collarbone, the swells of my breasts. I arch into his touch, nails biting crescents into his shoulders. Each press of his lips brands my skin.
When his mouth finally closes over one tight peak, I cry out, electricity arcing straight to my core. Thale suckles firmly as his fingers continue plucking and teasing the other into an equally taut bud. My back bows, wordless pleas falling from my lips.
Just when I feel I might combust from sheer sensation, his kisses begin wandering lower, following the quivering plane of my stomach. I jump and clutch at his hair as his tongue dips briefly into my navel.
Thale's big hands grip my hips, pinning them in place as he settles between my splayed thighs. I am utterly exposed to him, but feel no embarrassment, only blazing need.
He takes a moment just to look his fill, primal satisfaction kindling in his gaze. I know my arousal is evident in the flush of my skin, the glistening pink folds peeking from between my thighs. But I cannot bring myself to feel shame. My body's responses prove how deeply I want this man.
Mercifully, Thale doesn't tease me for long. When his mouth finally descends to my slick, I arch off the furs, keening. He is forced to use his considerable strength to keep me pinned as his tongue delves and circles my entrance.
The obscene sounds mingling with my choked cries echo through the room. I am distantly aware my nails have broken skin on Thale's shoulders, but if my alpha minds, he gives no sign. His entire focus narrows to feasting on my slick evidence of need for him.
When Thale's lips seal over the swollen bud at my apex and suck commandingly, I shatter apart with a scream. My climax goes on and on as he works me through each aftershock, wringing every last tremor from my willing flesh.
As I float back down from the heights of ecstasy, Thale kisses his way back up my boneless frame. I blink up at him dazedly, still trembling with occasional tremors. His eyes glow with alpha satisfaction at having pulled me so thoroughly apart.
"My Rina," Thale rasps, voice gravelly with lust. "You are exquisite in your pleasure, as in all things."
I caress his beloved face, hoping he can read the depths of my devotion in my eyes. My stalwart earth god. With him I am safe; with him I am home.
Thale's expression softens, tension easing from his massive frame. He brushes a tender kiss over my sweat-damp hair.
"Hush now, dear one. Let me love you."
