** Jake’s POV **

For a second, I just look at her.

Poppy is spread out against the dark sheets, her copper curls fanned around her, her pale skin flushed softly from my touch, and her lips swollen from kissing me. Her big green eyes lock onto mine, wide and trusting and so fucking beautiful it almost hurts to breathe.

Goddess. This woman. My mate.

The bond pulses hard in my chest, but for once it isn’t demanding or painful. It’s warm, certain, and so full. Like it’s been waiting for ...