Chapter 7: Say It

Jory ended the kiss only because he needed air.

Lucan's hands were still locked on the rock on either side of him, white at the knuckles.

A hairline crack ran down the stone between his fingers.

"You can let go of that," Jory said.

"Rule two," Lucan said, hoarse.

"I know what I said," Jory said.

"No touching without your say."

"I'm aware."

"Then say," said the lion king, and his eyes held a look Jory had not seen on him before.

It was a challenge, and it was very nearly a grin.

Jory felt his face heat all over again.

The man was throwing his own terms back at him in the dark.

Jory had a feeling he would be doing it for the rest of his life.

"Touch me," he said.

The rock gave up a small crumbling sound.

Lucan's hands were on him before it finished falling.

One slid into the hair at the back of his head and the other spread over his spine.

He was lifted off the ground and held against that broad chest.

The second kiss was nothing like the first.

It was slow and sure, and it went on until Jory had to hold onto the mantle with both fists.

When it ended, neither of them said anything.

Lucan simply rested his forehead on Jory's and breathed.

The purr was so strong that Jory could feel it in his own ribs.

"Stay," Lucan said finally. "Tonight. Not for that. Only to sleep."

"I've got a cub in Sabra's den."

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