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I consider Zane’s offer for a moment, weighing my options. The thought of spending extra time with him alone sends a thrill through me that I can’t quite explain, but the rational part of my brain kicks in, reminding me of the potential risks, like smelling like an orange Creamsicle treat on a hot summer day.
Luckily, the scent suppressants are doing their thing, and I should be all right if I go through with this, but also…
I shouldn’t entertain this. Zane is part of a pack, and I’m trying to avoid entanglements. His protective nature is appealing, but it complicates things. I don’t want to rely on anyone who could get too close, especially after what he said last time.
Just because he’s being nice doesn’t mean he wants to knot you, Aria. True. Not every guy wants a taste of this sweet ambrosia pussy.
I could just kick him in the testes.
“I appreciate the offer,” I say slowly, “but I don’t want to impose. I can catch the bus.”
Zane’s gaze doesn’t waver. “It’s no imposition, Aria. I’m happy to do it. You’ve worked hard today, and you deserve a break.”
His smooth words caress my ears, tempting me to give in, but deep down, I know what’s right and what’s wrong. My inner turmoil intensifies as I nervously bite my lip, unsure which path to choose.
“Okay,” I relent, my voice barely above a whisper. “If you’re sure it’s not a problem.”
Zane’s smile widens, a genuine expression that lights up his face. “Not at all. Let’s get you tested for that white belt first though.”
A surge of excitement and nerves courses through me. Zane leads me back to the center of the mat and takes a stance opposite me.
“All right, let’s see what you’ve got,” Zane says, his voice taking on a more serious tone. “I want you to show me the escape techniques you learned today. I’ll be the attacker, and you’ll defend yourself. Ready?” His eyes bore into mine, a mix of challenge and something else—something protective and deeply rooted.
No, I’m not ready. I take a deep breath, trying to calm my racing heart. “Ready.”
Zane lunges forward, his arms outstretched as if to grab me. Instinctively, I drop my weight and twist, just like Willow taught me. To my surprise, I manage to slip out of his grasp with ease.
“Good. Again.” Zane nods approvingly.
We repeat the process several times, with Zane increasing the intensity of his attacks each round. The mat squeaks under our feet as we move, and the scent of sweat and determination fills the air. My muscles burn with exertion, but I feel more and more comfortable with each movement, my body responding almost automatically. The satisfying thwap of successful blocks echoes through the empty dojo.
After a particularly challenging sequence, Zane steps back, a sheen of sweat on his brow. “Impressive, Aria. You’re a quick learner.”
I can’t help but beam at his praise, feeling a sense of pride swell in my chest. “Thanks. I had a good teacher.”
Zane chuckles, grabbing a towel and wiping the sweat from his face. “Flattery will get you everywhere,” he teases, his eyes sparkling with mirth. There’s a softness in his expression that makes my heart flutter, but I quickly shove the feeling down, reminding myself that I need to keep my distance.
Who is this Zane, and where did he come from?
I roll my eyes playfully, trying to ignore the way my stomach flips at his words. “So did I earn that white belt or what?”
Zane pretends to consider for a moment, tapping his chin thoughtfully. “Hmm, I don’t know. I might need to see a few more moves before I make my decision.”
Raising an eyebrow, I rise to the challenge. “Bring it on, sensei.”
We square off again, and this time, Zane doesn’t hold back. His attacks are swift and precise, forcing me to think on my feet. I counter each move as best as I can, drawing on every ounce of strength and determination I possess.
In one swift motion, he spins me around and locks me into a tight chokehold, our ragged breaths mingling in the charged air. As I gasp to catch my breath, Zane’s hot exhalations wash over my neck like fire. “It’s Master Zane,” he rumbles, his voice a dangerous whisper.
Suddenly, he releases me, and I’m left reeling, my heart pounding furiously while an electrifying ache twists through my core.
Why the hell was that so intoxicating, and how can I erase it from my mind when every nerve is still screaming for more?
Pretend he said nothing. Yeah, that will work best. If I think about it too much, then I’m going to slick, and then I’ll stink, but in a delicious way.
Just focus on the moves, Aria.
By the time we finish, we’re both breathing hard, our bodies glistening with sweat. Zane looks at me approvingly, a hint of something unreadable in his expression.
