Vael didn't hesitate this time. He stepped closer, his hand coming up to cup her face. His palm was warm against her cheek, his thumb brushing lightly across her cheekbone. Then he leaned down. His lips met hers.
The kiss was soft at first. But somewhere deep inside them, their wolves agreed. Runn reached for Vee again, and this time she didn't pull away. She surged forward to meet him, their essences brushing together.
"Careful now," Vee grumbled.
Runn chuckled. "I know."
The bond tightened between them, the golden thread weaving itself more securely and binding them together.
Vee's voice came through, wary but not hostile.
"I'm allowing this. Don't make me regret it."
Runn's response was immediate. "I…we promise to be good.
The applause swelled around them as the kiss deepened, just slightly. Vessara's free hand came up to grip Vael's lapel, steadying herself. Her heart was pounding, but whether from the kiss or the bond or both, she couldn't tell.
