Page 59 of Sanctuary and Spices
“Not tonight,” I said firmly. “Whatever it is can wait until morning.”
Malik nodded slowly. “Of course. My apologies for disturbing you.” He started to leave, then paused. “And... congratulations. What you’ve built here, it’s remarkable.”
“Thank you.” Jani smiled. “Though I think the garden deserves most of the credit.”
As if in response, the nearest Jhrya vine unfurled a fresh bloom - gold and silver petals catching starlight.
“Speaking of building things.” I drew her attention back to me once Malik had gone. “Are you happy? With all of this?”
She turned in my arms, reaching up to trace my markings. “More than I ever thought possible.” A wicked smile bloomed on her face. “Though I could be happier...”
“Oh?”
She rose on tiptoes to whisper in my ear. “Take me home?”
The bond flared hot between us.
“What about our guests?”
“Let them celebrate.” She pressed closer, her fingers finding that sensitive spot again. “I want to start our own private party.”
I growled low in my throat. “You’re playing with fire.”
“Good thing I like the heat.”
I twined her fingers with mine. “Home. Now.”
She laughed as I pulled her toward the exit, but I felt her own desire burning through the bond. We barely made it three steps before Erynn intercepted us.
“And where do you think you’re going?”
“Fresh air,” Jani said quickly.
“Right.” Erynn’s knowing smirk said she didn’t believe that for a second. “Well, don’t let me stop you.” She winked. “Though you might want to dim those markings first. They’re a bit obvious.”
I fought to control the glow as we slipped away from the party. Jani’s silent laughter didn’t help.
“Not funny,” I growled once we were alone.
“Very funny.” She pressed against me, sending fresh sparks through my nerves. “Now, about that private celebration...”
I silenced her with a kiss that left us both breathless. The bond sang between us, drowning out all thoughts of strange readings and distant troubles.
“I love you,” I murmured into her hair.
She pressed closer. “Show me how much?”
My markings flared hot at her tone. Through the bond, I felt her answering desire.
A crash from the main room made us both jump.
“It’s fine!” Pix yelled. “The fire suppression systems worked perfectly!”
Jani laughed against my chest. “We should probably...”
“Probably.” I didn’t move.
“Someone needs to stop them from burning down our café.”
