Sanctuary's First Claim

Lysander's vow hangs in the air, and Kaelen turns his face upward from where he rests on the Alpha's thigh. 'Then let's make it worth the treason,' he murmurs, his violet eyes darkening with intent. He rises, pulling Lysander to his feet with a strength that surprises them both. In the cottage's quiet, they don't speak—hands find clasps, fabric whispers to the floor, and skin meets skin with a heat that steals breath. Against the wool rug, Lysander's golden eyes lock on Kaelen's. 'Mine,' he growls, the word both claim and surrender. Kaelen arches, a gasp escaping as he whispers back, 'Only yours.' Their union is fierce and tender, a claiming that leaves them trembling and entwined as dusk paints the garden in shadows, the world outside forgotten for one stolen night.