Like lightning, his hand shot out and gripped the back of her neck. He slanted his mouth over hers and kissed her until they were both gasping for breath. Alice’s blue eyes were heavy-lidded and focused on him when he pulled away, and some of his stress melted. He leaned forward and kissed her more slowly, languorously, taking his time to learn what made her breath hitch and fingers clench. When he moved away again, he was pleased to see the disappointment in her eyes. He might not be able to have her now, but he felt certain she wouldn’t want anyone else.
Chapter 19
Luka had tossed and turned all night and was in an odd mood. His mind and body were fatigued, his aggression high, yet he was also excited and nervous about seeing Alice for dinner.
To top it all off, unwelcomed, simmering arousal coursed through him. When he’d returned home the night before, Alice’s scent had still lingered, driving him mad. He’d stared at the area where she’d lain naked by the fire and recalled the way her body had shuddered when she’d come.
He’d paced, unable to relax. She should’ve been there with him, not alone in her home. Unable to sleep, he’d decided to distract himself by working through his best course of action. He needed to have a clear plan to make sure Alice eventually decided to stay with him. He’d contacted Theo to get some insight, but it had only led to more frustration.
Humans are impossible! With any other female, he could give gifts to show his sincerity or he could display his skills to prove he’d make a fit husband and father, but when it came to Alice, none of that mattered. Theo had explained that after many conversations with Jade, he believed a human’s capacity for love and loyalty were unparalleled, but it had to be won—earned, even. They listened to their hearts rather than cold logic. There was nothing he could do or give to ensure her affections, and the lack of certainty was terrifying.
He clutched the bag of food he’d prepared a little tighter when Izzo began jogging toward him, wide grin in place.
“Hello, brother,” he said cheerfully as he neared.
Luka only grunted in answer and snatched the pass out of Izzo’s hands. He walked ahead, anxious to get to Alice and experience the soothing relief he felt whenever he saw her.
“I heard all about your date,” Izzo said from behind him.
Luka tried to ignore his brother, but he couldn’t quell his curiosity. “And?” he growled.
“You did well. She was very happy.”
His spirits soared for a moment before darkening again. “How do you know? Did you visit her?”
Luka pictured Alice kindly inviting Izzo into her home, unaware of what that meant to Clecanian males. He’d need to explain the significance to her.
“She wanted my help in surprising you with something. She’s been working at it all day, so make sure you put on a damn happy face, because right now you’re acting like a sour baeder, and she doesn’t deserve that.”
Luka’s steps faltered and he spun toward his brother, head tilted. Izzo was young and had always been the most lighthearted of the group. He never let his Traxian side dictate his mood, and he always worked to lighten the spirits of his dour brothers, but now his substantial frame and light-blue eyes were radiating authority and aggression.
Pride swelled in Luka for a moment. Izzo was becoming a formidable male. Strong, proud, and honorable. It lessened some of Luka’s anxiety to know not only Zed but Izzo was watching out for his mate’s best interests, even if that meant standing up to Luka himself if needed.
“I’ll be better when I see her. It’s difficult being away.”
Izzo crossed his arms and huffed, glancing across the water near Alice’s home. “Tell me about it.”
Alice had been right yesterday in the forest. He needed to start seeing his family for what they were, blessings. Most Clecanians nowadays had few, if any siblings. He shouldn’t take their affection for granted.
“How are things with…” Luka tried to recall the name of the small girl with curly brown hair Izzo was infatuated with.
“Daisy,” Izzo provided. He hiked his shoulders, and the corner of his mouth turned down. “I haven’t technically recognized her, and I don’t know why. From the first moment I saw her, I could’ve sworn she was meant to be mine.”
Luka gripped his shoulder. “I’ve spent a lot of time researching mating the past few days, and I’ve read many accounts of matings. What I’ve come to find is it’s not nearly as consistent as most people think. I’ve read about mating marks appearing as soon as an individual scents their mate, before ever even seeing them. Others appear after years of friendship. Asivva believes it took Theo so long because he’d subconsciously built a mental barrier to it. It varies from race to race and individual to individual. Don’t lose hope. If your instincts are telling you she’s yours, they’re likely right.”
Izzo slowly nodded in agreement, pushing his shoulders back. “Thank you. I needed that.” He smirked at Luka. “Look at you, giving pep talks and going out in public. Alice is rubbing off on you.”
Heart picking up speed at the mention of her name, Luka resumed his trek toward her house and grinned. “I sure hope so.”
When he finally reached her door, Izzo departed, telling him his pass would expire in four hours. If he needed more time, Alice had to alert a guard and request it.
He softly knocked and straightened, his skin itching with excitement.
She opened the door, and his stomach did
