Christian’s Pov

I woke before the sun.

Jennifer was still asleep beside me, her breathing slow and even. Her dark hair was spread across the pillow, and the mark on her neck was visible in the soft morning light. I lay there watching her for a long time. The bond between us hummed quietly, steady and warm in a way I had never felt with anyone else.

My wolf was already restless. He wanted her again. I wanted her again.

I shifted closer and pressed a slow kiss to her bare shoulder. She made a small sound but did not wake. I kissed lower, following the line of her spine,...