Elijah gazed at Aria's serene face, her chest rising and falling in a gentle rhythm. The morning's intense passion had left her exhausted, and she slept deeply. His wolf's hypersensitive ears picked up the melodic beat of her heart, a soothing lullaby.
As he watched her, Elijah's thoughts unraveled:
"Aria is my haven, my completion. I'm lost to her."
Possessiveness flared, urging him to claim her, make her his mate. The Alpha's bite, a sacred bond, would unite them forever.
Elijah's eyes locked onto the vulnerable curve of Aria's neck, the perfect spot for the bite. His wolf surged, instincts taking over.
With a gentle yet firm grip, Elijah's teeth sank into her skin. Aria didn't cry out in pain; instead, a sensual moan escaped her lips.
The sound ignited Elijah's passion anew. He withdrew his teeth, and his lips claimed hers in a fierce kiss.