*Daphne*

I awoke wrapped securely in Rion's arms, his muscular chest pressed against my back and his face nuzzled into my hair. His steady breaths tickled the nape of my neck. As an early morning breeze blew gently through the open balcony doors into our chambers, I smiled contentedly.

This was my favorite way to wake up—entangled with my beloved mate. After so many years together, I still relished the intimacy of skin against skin. I caressed Rion's arms, ...