Chapter 43 Irresistable
ARYA
Luca’s hand tightened on mine. Through the bond, I felt his jealousy spike.
He’s my friend, I sent silently. Please.
I know. Doesn’t mean I have to like it.
You don’t have to like it. Just tolerate it.
He sighed but nodded.
Ryker entered, and I was shocked by his appearance. He looked… different. Harder. He’d filled out more, muscle definition that spoke of serious training. His hair was longer, pulled back. And his eyes—there was a new confidence there, mixed with something else I couldn’t quite identify.
“Arya.” He smiled, but it didn’t quite reach his eyes. “You look good. Happy.”
“I am.” I stood, moving toward him. Luca let me go, but I felt his attention tracking every movement. “I’m glad you came back.”
“Heard you were hosting a summit. Thought you might need extra security.” His eyes flicked to Luca, assessing. “Your Majesty.”
“Ryker.” Luca’s voice was neutral. “Thank you for offering your assistance.”
“I’m not doing it for you.” Ryker’s bluntness was almost refreshing. “I’m doing it for her.”
“Understood.” Surprisingly, Luca didn’t seem offended. “Caspian will coordinate with you on security details.”
Caspian gestured for Ryker to follow him out. Before leaving, Ryker paused.
“Arya, can we talk? Later? Just for a few minutes?”
I glanced at Luca, who nodded stiffly.
“Of course. Find me at dinner?”
“Will do.”
After they left, Luca pulled me into his arms, burying his face in my neck.
“That was harder than I expected,” he admitted.
“What was?”
“Watching you smile at him. Knowing he loves you. Knowing part of you cares for him too.” His arms tightened. “My rational mind understands friendship. My Lycan wants to rip his throat out.”
“But you won’t.”
“But I won’t.” He pulled back, cupping my face. “Because you asked me not to. And I’d do anything for you. Even tolerate wolves who look at you like you’re the sun.”
“He doesn’t look at me like that anymore,” I said softly. “Did you see? Something’s changed.”
“I noticed. He’s different. Harder. Like he’s been through something.”
“Maybe that’s good. Maybe he needed to find himself away from me.”
“Maybe.” Luca kissed me gently. “But he’s still in love with you, Aeliana. That hasn’t changed.”
I wasn’t so sure. But I didn’t argue.
\-----
The rest of the afternoon was consumed by planning. Guest lists, security protocols, catering arrangements, speech preparation. Being a revolutionary apparently involved a lot of logistics.
By the time dinner rolled around, my head was spinning with details.
Dinner was more crowded than usual. Caspian had invited several of his lieutenants, along with Bardon and now Ryker. The large dining room felt almost full.
I sat beside Luca at the head of the table, his hand resting possessively on my thigh under the table. Every few minutes, his thumb would stroke small circles, a constant reminder of his presence.
Across from us, Ryker sat next to Caspian. They seemed to be getting along, discussing security measures and potential threats.
“The northern approach is vulnerable,” Ryker was saying. “If I were planning an attack, that’s where I’d come from.”
“Agreed. I’m planning to station fifty warriors there.” Caspian studied his tablet. “Think that’s enough?”
“Make it seventy-five. And add magical wards if you can.”
“We can arrange that,” Bardon interjected. “I know several witches who owe me favors.”
The conversation flowed around us—strategy, politics, old war stories. I found myself relaxing, enjoying the camaraderie.
Until Luca’s hand slid higher on my thigh.
I shot him a look. He smiled innocently, continuing his conversation with Caspian about border patrols.
But his hand kept moving. Higher. Higher.
What are you doing? I sent through the bond.
Making sure you’re paying attention to me.
Everyone is here!
I know. Exciting, isn’t it?
His fingers brushed against my core through my dress, and I barely suppressed a gasp.
Luca, stop.
Why? You’re already getting wet. I can feel it.
He was right. Despite my protests, my body was responding to his touch. The risk of being caught, the illicit nature of it—it was intoxicating.
If you don’t stop, I’m going to make a scene.
Good.
His finger pressed exactly where I needed it, and I bit my lip hard to keep from moaning.
“Luna Arya, are you alright?” Bardon’s concerned voice cut through my haze.
“Fine,” I managed, my voice slightly strangled. “Just thinking about everything we need to do.”
Under the table, Luca’s finger continued its torment.
“The summit preparations are extensive,” Bardon agreed. “But I have faith you’ll manage brilliantly.”
“Thank you,” I gasped as Luca increased pressure.
Ryker was watching me with narrowed eyes. He knew something was wrong. And from the way his jaw clenched, I think he knew exactly what was happening.
Stop. Now. Ryker knows.
Let him know. Let everyone know you’re mine.
Luca—
His finger slipped beneath my underwear, finding me slick and ready. I nearly came off my chair.
“Excuse me,” I stood abruptly, almost knocking over my wine glass. “I need some air.”
I fled to the terrace, my legs shaky, my body aching with unfulfilled need.
Luca followed seconds later, a predatory smile on his face.
“That was cruel,” I accused.
“That was fun.” He backed me against the stone railing. “Did you see how hard you were trying not to react? How your cheeks flushed? How your breathing changed?”
“Everyone noticed!”
“Good. Let them notice. Let them see how much you want me.” His hand slid under my dress, finding me again. “Because you do want me, don’t you, little wolf?”
“Yes,” I gasped. “God, yes.”
“Then take what you want.”
I didn’t need to be told twice. I jumped up, wrapping my legs around his waist. He caught me easily, pinning me against the wall as his mouth claimed mine.
“Here?” I panted against his lips. “Someone could see—”
“I don’t care.” He was already freeing himself, positioning at my entrance. “I need you. Now.”
He thrust in, and I screamed into his shoulder, biting down to muffle the sound.
“That’s it,” he growled. “Take all of me. Show me how much you need this.”