Chapter 16: The Chase

The sun warmed Ariana's face as she stirred. She slowly opened her eyes to see a shirtless Carter laying on his stomach, hugging his pillow. His shoulders flexed as he rubbed his face into it and groaned before he turned his head to peer at her with messy bed hair.

"Morning." Carter warmly smiled and reached up to move her bangs from in front of her eyes.

Her dark hair was tousled from their night of bliss, and he searched her eyes as she watched him.

"Morning." Ariana chirped as she watched him roll onto his side.

The sheets slid down his torso and pooled around his hips, showcasing the deep 'V' at his hips. Her gaze ran down to it and back up to his gaze. He suddenly rolled her over and she squeaked. "What are you doing?"

"I want to make sure you're alright. I didn't go easy on you." Carter ran his hand along her rounded behind, taking in her light bruises. "Are you okay?"