At the kiss Duke kissed back is arm reaching out to wrap around Mel. He jerked his arm so that she would be as close as he could get her. Tucking her under his chin he closed his eyes relaxing and enjoying the moment.
The wolf’s heart was out of control. Alternately racing and stopping as the male finally returned the kiss. They had shared a kiss before. But never like this. There was no hint of teasing. No trace of simply being a friendly gesture. His longing and desire, her need, was given life by that little act. Broken all to soon, she whined as his lips were pulled away. Quieting down when he pulled her into a tight embrace. Strong arms forming a protective shield as she was held against him. Fingertips moved to trace the scars riddling the hot skin. Hearing his heart beating so loudly beneath her cheek. The sound so clear even if the organ was a bit of distance from her.
She had always liked Duke. Even that first moment when he had been tossed into the ring to face her. There had been no hard feelings in her victory and he had ended up a protector of sorts. Taking her on dates when she was feeling down. Punching Gavin when he said dirty things, even though everyone involved knew more damage would be done to his hand. They were close friends. At that moment she realized she wanted something more. She was still badly damaged, but he was broken too. He didn’t judge her for it. With a brief moment of hesitation she turned. Mouthing kisses up to his neck. Desperate to taste and feel every part of him.