Ashlee woke up, feeling something heavy pressing down on her body, warmth enveloping her. The scent was intoxicating, making her feel safe and content.

“This smells so good,” she muttered, smiling to herself as she slowly opened her eyes to the muted morning light.

Her breath caught in her throat when she realized Kyle was wrapped around her, holding her close. What on earth? She blinked, trying to comprehend. She hadn’t expected this; sure, they’d been a bit touchy, but this close? His face was nearly touching hers, his breath brushing over her lips.

She gulped, trying not to move too much. Carefully, she attempted to slide out of his arms, but he held her firmly, even in sleep. How could he be this strong first thing in the morning? She struggled slightly, but his grip remained unyielding.

“Stay still,” Kyle muttered, his eyes still closed. Was he awake? Wait... had he been awake the whole time? Ashlee froze, feeling his deep voice rumble in her ear, sending a faint shiver down her spine.

“I need to go,” she whispered, staring at the ceiling, her eyes wide.

Kyle had been awake long before Esyn visited their room, hearing everything happening downstairs. He was delighted by the misunderstanding everyone had. Even though they hadn’t mated, he couldn’t help but enjoy the thought.

“You should sleep some more,” Kyle whispered, watching her. She was nervous but undeniably adorable.

“I... I... can’t,” she stuttered, feeling his gaze on her. How strange it was to wake up next to someone she’d only met a couple of months ago.

In one swift move, he turned her to face him, maintaining just a bit of distance as he smirked at her. What a sight to wake up to. He felt lucky to see someone this beautiful first thing in the morning.

“Wha... What do you want?” she asked, hesitantly, hiding her face with her hands. Did she think he was going to kiss her?

“I won’t kiss you,” Kyle whispered, trying to calm her. She remained silent, gazing up at him with those beautiful hazel eyes.

“I said I won’t. Take your hand off,” he murmured, pulling her hands away to reveal her face, allowing himself a better view.

“You know what?” Kyle muttered, tracing her hairline, his eyes moving down to her lips. “You should never let down your guard.” He smirked, looking directly into her eyes.

The next thing she knew, his lips were on hers, filled with passion and gentleness. Through that kiss, he was trying to convey how deeply he had fallen for her.

Her lips trembled at his touch, butterflies fluttering through her. He was surprised when she began kissing him back, and the surprise quickly turned into pure bliss. He bit her lower lip, silently asking for permission to continue.

She opened her mouth, allowing him in. Their tongues met, dancing together in a euphoric rhythm. This was her first time feeling something so sensual, and she realized how much she was enjoying it. Her hands slid up behind his head, tangling in his hair, while his hands drifted down to her hips.

“Kyle!” Cassandra’s voice broke through, followed by the sound of the door opening without a second’s pause. She immediately regretted it, turning away from the scene.

Kyle stopped, quickly moving as Ashlee pushed him off. She stood up, straightening herself in embarrassment.

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“I’m so sorry. I... didn’t... I’ll come later,” Cassandra stammered, clearly flustered. She mentally noted to wait longer next time after knocking. Her eagerness to see them together had backfired.

“Wait, Mom,” Kyle called, slipping on his shirt properly. “It’s alright now. You can stay.”

“Why? You know what, it doesn’t matter. Continue whatever you two were doing. We can talk later,” she teased, smiling before closing the door behind her.

Ashlee lowered her head, completely mortified. Cassandra had just startled her right out of her skin. Kyle looked frustrated at his mother’s sudden intrusion.

“I... I’m going to wash up first,” she muttered, rushing to the bathroom and shutting the door behind her.

Inside, she let out a relieved breath, her cheeks hurting from how much she was smiling. Her hand pressed over her heart, trying to calm its rapid beating. That was her first kiss, and it had been incredible. She hadn’t realized it could feel this way.

“I can’t believe we just kissed,” she murmured, looking at her reflection. Her fingers traced her lips, still tingling with the memory of his touch.

Outside, Kyle smirked, picking up on her excitement. He hadn’t expected her to be so happy about it. She usually seemed to reject him, but today was different. She’d responded just how he’d hoped.

“Her heartbeat’s like music to my ears,” he chuckled, throwing himself back on the bed.

Meanwhile, Heather was furious at the news. She couldn’t believe he’d been with her. Why Ashlee? He didn’t even like humans!

“He’s been with other girls; why are you so bothered?” Diana rolled her eyes, noticing Heather’s agitation.

“They weren’t his mate, Diana. And what even is that you’re eating?” she grumbled, making a face at Diana’s breakfast.

“Bacon?” Diana looked confused. Why was she annoyed about her food?

“My life is falling apart, and all you can do is eat bacon?” Heather hissed. Diana froze mid-chew, taken aback by Heather’s glare.

Heather sighed, “Just eat! Go on, stuff your face. I’ll handle this myself.” She stormed out, brewing a plan in her mind. She hadn’t learned her lesson from last time.

Kyle and Ashlee came downstairs. Ashlee tried to avoid Cassandra’s gaze, heading to the kitchen where Esyn and Derion were. She slipped inside quietly, pouring herself a glass of water.

“Good morning, lovebirds,” Esyn teased, noticing Kyle close behind Ashlee. Ashlee choked on her drink, while Kyle smirked at Esyn, pleased with himself.

“Good morning,” Ashlee muttered shyly. Talking to people wasn’t her strong suit; she was the true definition of an introvert.

“What would you like to eat?” Kyle asked, placing a hand on her shoulder, smiling gently as she looked at him, nervous.

“I’ll have anything,” Ashlee shrugged, uncertain. She wasn’t used to having breakfast, so it wasn’t a big deal to her either way.

“Alright, we’ll leave you two to it. Make her something nice, and I’ll introduce her to everyone later,” Esyn grinned, patting Ashlee’s arm before leaving with Derion.

“Pancakes, bacon, or cheese?” Kyle offered, looking through the fridge as Ashlee looked around, noticing things she had seen the day before.

“Anything,” Ashlee repeated softly.

“Ashlee, this isn’t your uncle’s house,” Kyle said, stepping toward her and taking her hands. “You can eat anything you want. I’ll make whatever you like, okay? There’s no need to be scared anymore. I won’t get mad at you for choosing what you like.” His words were filled with sincerity, hoping she understood his intentions.

He could sense why she acted this way, and he felt a strange desire to help her relax. But for Ashlee, this was new—someone offering to make her food, not just any food, but something she would truly enjoy.

Her heart melted hearing his reassurance. She wanted him to know she felt safe around him, but she kept the thought to herself.

“Okay. I’d like some bacon,” she whispered, a small smile forming on her lips.

“That’s my girl,” he chuckled, ruffling her hair. He started preparing breakfast for her.

“Bon appétit,” Kyle smiled, setting a plate before her. She nodded her thanks before beginning to eat. Just as she was finishing, an unwelcome disturbance arrived.

“Kyle, I missed you so much!” Heather burst in and latched onto his arm.

But what shocked Ashlee more was that she recognized Heather. She was the girl who had harassed her in the road. How did she know Kyle?

Kyle glanced at Ashlee and gently shrugged Heather off, but Heather kept chattering and clinging to him.

“You know I got hurt last night. A crow attacked me, and I was so injured,” she rambled, repeatedly touching him, even as he moved away.

“Kyle,” Ashlee whispered, drawing both his and Heather’s attention. Heather smirked, seeing this as an opportunity to stir things up.

Kyle looked at Ashlee, guilt in his eyes. She realized he had known all along and just acted oblivious. Ashlee quickly stood up and stormed out.

How could he do that to her?