The morning after our reconciliation dawned softer than I expected. Damien and I still lay wrapped around each other. My body ached in the best way between my thighs, faint bruises on my hips from his grip, and the unmistakable tenderness on my ass. Every shift reminded me of how completely I had surrendered to him.
Damien’s arm was heavy across my waist, his breath steady against my neck. I turned slightly to watch him sleep. In the daylight, he looked almost peaceful. The ruthless man who could order releases and threats seemed miles away from this version, the one who made heart-shaped pancakes and held me like I was made of glass after wrecking me.
I traced a finger along his jaw. He stirred, eyes cracking open with a lazy smile that made my chest tighten.
“Morning, beautiful,” he m
