The sharp click of the heavy iron bolt sliding into place echoed in the quiet room like a gunshot.
Rowan went completely still. He stared at the brass key still resting between Aria’s trembling fingers, and then he slowly lowered his gaze to meet hers. The feral, glowing gold in his eyes was blazing so brightly it seemed to illuminate the dark corners of the room.
He knew exactly what that sound meant. She wasn't just locking the door to keep the world out. She was locking herself in with him. She was giving him absolute, undeniable permission.
"Aria," Rowan breathed, his voice a ragged, desperate rasp.
He closed the distance between them in two long strides. He didn't grab her. Even now, with his wolf thrashing just beneath his skin, half-mad with desire, he gave her the ultimate cont
