Chapter 41

Nicole Midnight. I stirred from a half-conscious state as the mattress dipped beside me, a wave of warmth radiating through the sheets. Even with my eyes closed, I detected his distinctive scent—cedar and something uniquely Damien—filling the darkness around us. His arm slipped around my waist, drawing me against his chest. The heat of his skin penetrated through my thin nightshirt, and I could tell he was shirtless. "You just got back?" I murmured, my voice thick with sleep. My breath ghosted across his bare chest as I spoke, and I felt a slight shiver run through him. Without warning, he dipped his head and captured my lips with his. Something primal inside me responded instantly. I made a soft sound of approval against his mouth and wrapped my arms around his neck, pulling him closer. Damien tightened his hold possessively, asserting his dominance as an Alpha. His movements and kisses became more seductive, each touch calculated to entice rather than claim. ... I slept through the m