EXPECTATIONS OF POWER
LYKAINA’S POV
The fortress’s dawn light filtered through Zarek’s room. I stirred in his bed, his woodsmoke-and-mint scent clinging to the sheets, to me, a reminder of last night’s intimacy.
My heat’s pain had vanished in his arms, his hands weaving relief through my skin, his kisses a vow that left me breathless. I felt… alive, cherished, a warmth beyond the heat blooming in my chest. Though we didn't do the deed yet.
Zarek’s care, his restraint, made me hope. Could I be his mate? I didn’t know how mates were chosen, but with him, I felt safe, whole.
I sat up, his oversized shirt dropping just above my knees.
Last night’s intensity lingered, a mix of trust, desire, and a nagging question. Why wouldn’t he explain the heat? His promise to tell me ‘when it’s time
