Page 93 of The Golden Hour

“I think I might try nature photography,” I tell her. “Trees are cool.”

Eyes narrowed, she sees right through me. “Are you ever going to take my picture?”

“What makes you think I haven’t?”

Her nose wrinkles. “Creepy.”

“Only creepy for you.”

She laughs and offers me a hand. I make it to my feet, then tip up her chin and kiss her soundly.

“Little Jessie has your number,” she says when I release her.

“I know.” I hang my head. “I thought I’d finally found a woman who needed a hero.”

Callisto smirks. “You’ll always be the hero of my heart. Does that count?”

“It sure does, princess.” I kiss her again. “I’m going to take your picture tonight. And tomorrow, and the next day, and probably every day for the rest of your life. The only rule is you have to be naked.”

She giggles. I grab her ass and lift her into me, angling my head for better access to her mouth.

From behind us comes exaggerated gagging and vomiting noises. My oldest nephews. They’re little fuckers, just like I was. But I have the upper hand—their mom told me my tattoos scare them a little. Setting Callisto down, I face them.

“Run,” I growl.

They scream and take off at a sprint toward the house. My arm draped around Callisto’s shoulders, I watch them disappear.

Eventually, she asks lightly, “You’re not going after them, are you?”

“Nope. Suckers.”

Head thrown back, she laughs and laughs. Her dark eyes shining, cheeks rosy with life. Her spirit so fucking bright it hurts to look at her. But I look at her anyway.

My fierce princess who didn’t need a prince.

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