Alaric took a step forward, sliding one foot between her legs, and gently pushed Emerald’s body down onto the bed. Her long hair cascaded over the bedspread, and one of her straps slipped loosely off her shoulder. Her slightly parted, rosy lips and the way she looked at him with half-lidded eyes sent a wave of heat through him.

Alaric couldn’t help but feel a surge of desire. He had told her many times before—Emerald was stunningly beautiful to him, and he could never tire of repeating it because it was the truth.

Bending one leg, he rested his elbow next to her cheek and pulled her body close beneath...