Chapter 54 CONNECTED SOULS
Edeline
Percival let out a long, calming breath. “After our souls connected, we’d be able to sense each other’s desires and needs. We’d fall asleep together, and I’d hold you through the night. In the morning, I’d hurry to make breakfast for you before you woke up. Later, we’d shower together, mostly to avoid any awkwardness with your parents. Then, I’d accompany you back to the pack house, and we’d spend the day together—taking walks, doing whatever you wanted. Maybe I’d convince you to let me pleasure you since you might be sore, and you’d agree.”
I couldn’t help but squeal with excitement, my cheeks flushing red. “That sounds amazing.”
He continued with a dreamy smile. “Time would pass, and we’d spend so much time together. A few days later, on the day of your heat, we’d have our bonding ceremony. Then, I’d take you to our home and express our love physically, reaffirming our connection. You’d go through your heat with me, and when you felt ready, I’d show you my love in the most tender way, helping to bring new life into this world.”
His melancholy smile tugged at my heart, making me long to reach out and touch him.
I kept going, my voice full of hope. “We could become the Alpha and Luna, have a couple of boys and girls, and maybe even think about having another child later on. As our pups grew up, we’d enjoy our golden years together, surrounded by our adorable grand-pups. It’s a dreamy thought,” I sighed, feeling content.
“Oh, Edeline…” Percival said with a wistful sigh. “I really love you. I know it might be selfish to say this now, but I can’t help but express how I feel. You’re amazing, both in looks and intelligence. And your sense of humor is wonderful, too. I can’t fully convey how much I regret everything, and how much I despise myself for it.” His sadness was palpable, and I felt it deeply. His emotions had a way of affecting me, too.
My heart swelled with his words. I really liked him.
He was telling the truth. His care for me was real, but I couldn’t bring myself to say it back. It felt like saying it would only complicate things further.
How did I come to terms with all this? I guess this was supposed to be goodbye. The connection between mates was incredibly powerful, and it was clear we needed to part ways.
We embraced again, our lips meeting in a tender kiss. The softness of his touch and the heat of his skin ignited a strong desire within me. I pressed against his leg, feeling the fabric grow damp.
As our kisses grew more intense, his tongue explored every corner of my mouth. I sighed, feeling overwhelmed as he supported himself over me. One hand rested by my head, while the other traced along my side, following the contours of my body until it reached the top of my thigh.
We broke the kiss, and he gazed into my eyes with so much love. I could feel it radiating from him, mingling with the desire that I also felt. It was hard to distinguish between the two, but the intensity was undeniable.
“Hey, Edeline,” Percival said softly, his voice thick with desire. “I know we agreed that nothing would happen tonight, but... let me experience your taste one more time. That’s all I desire. Allow me to bring you pleasure and savor your delightful essence.” His fingers brushed gently against the inside of my thigh, sending shivers through me.
I was torn. I really shouldn’t do this. I kept telling myself not to fall for his tricks, but his touch, his voice—it was all so tempting. I wanted to experience the sensation of his lips on me just one more time.
I could hear the soft rustling of leaves from below, near the creek bed. It was faint but unmistakable.
Percival’s eyes widened in surprise as he glanced in the direction of the noise. “Someone’s down there,” he said urgently, his voice barely above a whisper. The realization hit me hard. We were on the brink of getting caught, and the thought of facing Alpha William’s punishments made my stomach churn. His punishments were known to leave lasting scars.
I cursed under my breath. Why did I have to let my body’s desires take over tonight?
I just wanted him to stick around. The thought of losing him—or worse, facing the consequences of being caught—made me ache inside.
…
I was lying there, trying my best to stay as silent as possible while Percival had his ear trained on the direction of the stream. The sound had come from there, and it was making my nerves jump.
I was seriously freaked out about getting caught. Worse yet, someone might be watching us, keeping tabs on everything we did.
My breathing quickened as my mind raced through all the possible scenarios. It could be anyone from the pack. If they discovered that Alpha had banned Percival and me from being alone together, they wouldn't waste a second to report it.
Nobody knew about us yet.
Only a few people were in the room during the meeting—my brother Darius and my parents. I didn’t think my parents would be up here. Nixx would probably be wherever Tatiana was; he seemed more involved than he let on. And then there was Darius...
Darius knew about my little escapades with Percival. I must’ve been more obvious than I thought because he’d picked up on something. But Darius wouldn’t snitch. We were too close for that. He’d probably be disappointed if he caught us here, but I’d tell him Percival just wanted one last moment together. He’d understand.
I doubted Darius would be out here at this hour.
A wave of panic surged through me, twisting my stomach in knots with fear about what was coming.
“Hey, Edeline, calm down,” Percival whispered, his voice soothing yet urgent. “I can feel your anxiety. If you’re this anxious, they might sense it too. Just take a deep breath,” he urged, his hand gently resting on my shoulder.