Evangeline blinked, her long lashes casting faint shadows in the dim light of the Beast Crystal.
The corners of her lips lifted slightly as she whispered, "I wasn't trying to push you away. It's just... I haven't taken my clothes off yet."
As she spoke, her slender fingertips tapped his taut chest.
The Everwake's breath hitched. Her sly, smiling face was reflected in his rainbow-colored pupils.
He watched her, eyes curved into crescents, and froze for a moment. It was obvious she was teasing him.
'She has no intention of refusing me.'
The realization sent a scorching heat through The Everwake. He immediately wrapped his arms around her. His well-defined fingers found her sash, twirled it around his fingertips a few times, and gave a gentle tug.
Amidst the rustle of her crimson robes slipping to the floor, The Everwake leaned in and murmured in her ear, "Is this better now?"
The temperature in the cave rose abruptly.
