“No? I’ve heard if it’s running, it can add a certain something to the experience. And I’m sure Sam won’t mind as long as we throw a load of laundry in at the same time.”
His comment didn’t deserve a response so she gave him a pointed look instead.
“Sorry. I couldn’t resist teasing.” He laughed. “The compromise is a chaste kiss and then we’ll cut the leather tie before returning to the celebration.”
“Cut the tie?”
He nodded. “It shows that only death can ever separate us now. Untying it is considered bad lack, indicating the bond isn’t strong enough.”
“Oh. Okay. Except,” she looked up at him through her lashes. “A chaste kiss sounds a bit boring.”
“So not a chaste kiss but no washing machine sex. Hmm. I’m sure we can find a middle ground.”
Sometime later, their wrists unbound and feeling thoroughly kissed, she allowed Dante to lead her back to the party. The guests milled around them, offering congratulations and spontaneous toasts. She accepted hugs and kisses and comments on her dress feeling she was caught in a whirlwind of activity.
“You look lovely, Gwyn.” Matt smiled down at her.
“Thank you, Matt. I’m glad you came.”
His smile faded and he studied her carefully, his hands holding hers. When he spoke, his voice had that too-serious tone she’d often chided him about. “Are you happy?”
For some reason his words made her throat feel tight and her eyes prick with tears. He really was a dear friend. “Yes, I’m happy, Matt.”
“Good. I worried about you.”
“I know.”
He reached up and brushed a curl from her cheek. “If you ever need anything, you give me a call.”
“Thanks. I’ll be fine, though.”
He nodded and she gave him a hug. Over his shoulder, she saw Dante watching, eyes narrowed. A few minutes later, Dante was introducing Matt to one of the caterers. There was a devious look in his eye and she made a mental note to inquire about the incident.
Camille appeared beside her and gave her a sweeping glance. “You look presentable enough, Gwyneth.”
“Thank you.” She held back the urge to make a rude comment.
“When you return from your honeymoon I’ll have several assignments for you. I fear we’ll be working closely together for some time.”
“Closely together?”
“Yes, I’m reorganizing the Coven and will need your input. Given recent events I’ve come to the conclusion that many of the members are much too content to rest on their laurels. If everyone had been more diligent, recent unfortunate events might very well have been avoided.”
Before she could formulate a response, Camille walked away.
Oh great, working closely with Camille. How exciting a prospect was that? Maybe she’d be able to convince Dante to extend their honeymoon indefinitely.
Someone announced dinner was served and she allowed Dante to lead her to her seat. Several toasts were made and each time she sipped the wine Dante had selected with enjoyment. He’d been correct; the wine Camille had used was an inferior vintage.
Eventually, it was time for her and Dante to leave. They were taking a vacation, heading back to the UK to explore their shared history. As they gathered outside the pack house by the car Dante had rented, she bid goodbye to Sam, thanking her for presiding over the ceremony. Dante, she noticed, was talking to Damien. Damien’s face was stiff but at least he nodded at whatever Dante was saying and extended his hand for a shake. At the last minute, Dante pulled him in for a quick hug and then quickly turned away, his face a study of mixed emotions.
However, by the time he was at her side, helping her into the car, he was smiling again. “Ready to leave?”
“Yes, I can’t wait to get out of this dress.”
He tucked her skirt into the car. “You’ll have to wait a bit,” he whispered in her ear. “I intend to remove it very, very slowly.” He shut the car door and hurried around to the driver’s side.
“I thought you said you couldn’t wait to see me naked, wearing only the opal.”
“Hmm…” He frowned. “I suppose I’ll have to be patient then.”
“But I am not a patient person.”
“I promise I’ll make it worth your while.”
“You’d better.” She smiled and then winked. “It never pays to deceive a witch.”
~ FIN ~
Message from Nicky
Hi!
Thank you for reading my book. I hope you enjoyed the story. If you did, please consider leaving feedback at a book review site, or email me; I love hearing from my readers!
This series started as a one chapter short story which turned into a novel, a trilogy and eventually a whole series. With each book I write, my Lycan universe seems to expand and new characters appear demanding their story be told. As well as some old characters who have been nudging me that they need more attention. At this point, I can foresee this series continuing for some time.
~ Nicky
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Books by Nicky Charles
Forever In Time
The Law of the Lycans series
The Mating
The Keeping
The Finding
Bonded
Betrayed: Days of the Rogue
Betrayed: Book 2 – The Road to Redemption
For the Good of All
Deceit can be Deadly
Written with Jan Gordon
In The Cards
Nicky Charles, Deceit Can Be Deadly
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