Chapter 48 (Mature Content)

The fire in the fireplace crackled softly and I exhaled sharply and closed my eyes shut as tye smell of pine, smoke, and Marcus filled my lungs, it was warm and familiar.

Every breath I took was full of him, wild, grounding, and so addicting it made my chest ache and my whole body buzz.

Without a second thought, I reached out, letting my fingers brush aagainst his jaw.

He looked at me like I was something fragile, something he was afraid to break.

But I wasn't fragile.

Not with him.

Not tonight.

"Marcus..."

I whispered, my voice trembling but sure.

"I- I'm ready."

His eyes searched mine. Confused.

"Ready for what, love?"

I swallowed, my heart pounding so hard I thought he might hear it.

"For you..."

I said softly.

"For this. I want you to have all of me… body, heart, soul.

I- I want you to make me yours."