Ryder synchronised his pace with hers. I have not. “It remains precisely as it was during your previous visit.” His hand grasped hers again.
That elicited a raised eyebrow from her, and her eyes shifted to him with a questioning gaze.
“I desired it to be identical to the moment I discovered you and brought you home.”
“Oh,” was her only response. “Inform me upon its discovery.”
“Please inform me of its location.”
“I could,” Brianna affirmed, smiling to herself. “Alternatively, I could allow you to search extensively and lose sleep over it.” I believe that is more enjoyable.
“I will inform you.”
“I understand that sentiment,” she laughed.
Ryder escorted her to her room and opened the door for her. Benjamin reclined on the lounge, rose, and smiled at them. “He’s a good boy, fast asleep.” He walked past them. She perceived him inhaling her scent and rolled her eyes. What he anticipated or was verifying had not occurred.
Brianna smiled at him as she entered her suite, saying, “Enjoy the hunt, Ryder.”
He shook his head while smiling at her, “Goodnight, Brianna.”
Ryder’s Perspective
Ryder was profoundly affected by the sight of the room in the pack-house basement, filled with anguish and her desperate desire for acknowledgement evident in every corner. He desired to alleviate all her suffering.
Aiden, his wolf, lamented in agony within his consciousness. Brianna’s emotional withdrawal and reluctance to discuss matters were unsurprising. Her existence within his pack.
Experiencing her embrace as he hugged her, desiring to provide the minimal solace he could amidst her past, was profoundly remarkable.
Brianna was willingly in his embrace for the first time, leaning into him. As she gazed up at him, resting her chin on his chest, it appeared remarkably comfortable and instinctive for her. His thoughts were solely consumed by the desire to kiss her, and she was aware of it. Brianna quickly recognised that he would not either.
She was his Mate, and he desired nothing more than to kiss her; he had not been able to approach her until now, as she had been distant and had justifiable reasons for her demeanour.
He was somewhat astonished that she did not flee from him when he leaned down to kiss her.
He kissed her softly and gently, taking his time. Despite her reciprocation of the kiss, he was determined to proceed with caution, opting to invest time in their relationship. Having nearly consumed her during their previous encounter, he would refrain from repeating that behaviour.
He felt the tears dampen his thumb resting on her cheek before he heard her sob, and then she withdrew from him. Prevented her from departing. He was neither embarrassed nor disturbed by her tears.
Recognised that her inability to articulate her feelings left her feeling overwhelmed, and permitted her to express this without requiring an apology for her emotions, desiring to witness her feelings openly, and chose to set the matter aside for the time being.
One kiss exceeded his expectations for the evening, although he had almost kissed her in the laundry room, had contemplated it, and was fairly certain she was aware of his intentions, as she swiftly turned away upon realising it.
Accompanied her extensively, permitting her to lead him throughout the entire territory of the pack.
Traversed the woods, where her initials were inscribed throughout the pack. She is endeavouring to be visible in any possible location. It was more than mildly painful. He had never paid attention to the names inscribed in the trees. Wolves, akin to humans, enjoyed etching their names and those of their companions into trees.
Despite the agility course and the accompanying time, she was swift. He intended to embark on a lifelong challenge with her. She elicited a smile from him by stating her intention to watch and promising to challenge him if he succeeded in defeating her.
He appreciated hearing her express this, all words from his Mate, his Luna, expressing her desire to remain here with him, to be with him.
Ryder intended to present a novel challenge to the entire pack and would need to contemplate an enticing reward for the individual who could surpass the Luna. He may need to incorporate a significant running challenge into the annual summer games he organises. Determine if there was anyone in the pack capable of outpacing his Luna.
Upon observing her anxious demeanour, she averted her gaze and mentioned that there were two additional locations to visit.
Ryder immediately recognised that these were locations she ought to have avoided; nevertheless, her inability to be detected compelled her to proceed regardless.
Brianna was confident she would evade detection. Alone in his office. That captivated him.
He immediately realised that the other individual would be in his suite and was intensely curious about the frequency of her visits; however, observing Brianna’s evident embarrassment, he chose to refrain from pursuing the matter further. Shall prioritise searching the office initially.
He surveyed the remodelled space, enquiring whether a particular item remained, despite his scepticism; it turned out it still existed. Even Aiden was observing from behind his eyes; they possessed nothing.
Despite his search, he had yet to locate it; even while seated at his desk, he could discern that she was thoroughly entertained by this.
Appreciated her happiness, despite it being at his detriment. She smiled, suppressing laughter, and in their solitude, it was evident they would harmonise well. They would be fine once all matters were resolved. She appeared to relish the prospect of tormenting him.
The hour was growing late. He was unaware of the passage of time, content to spend it with her, holding her hand as they walked. He made a remark about his suit and was taken aback by her reply.
Ryder had not intended for her to believe he desired her to share his bed. Despite the kiss being extraordinary, he was not inclined to invite her into his bed. It was premature for that.
Ryder appreciated that she appeared sufficiently at ease to consistently permit him to hold her hand. Their relationship was gradually strengthening, and he recognised its potential for robustness. They were deliberating before uniting.
