Even in sleep, she is perfect.

Her gorgeous face is relaxed—her whole body is warm and trusting in my arms. I should be sleeping as well, but I can’t. Not as our lovemaking still pumps through my veins andThe Great Oakhums around us with new magic.

The prophecy has been fulfilled. Satisfaction should be coursing through me, and in truth, I am happy that my realm is no longer in danger. But satisfied? I can’t say that I am anything but restless as a new hunger burrows under my skin.

This new need roars in my veins, demanding I claim my blossom over and over again. To be awake and not inside her is torture. To not hear her call my name as she comes is an unbearably cruel punishment.

At least I have my eyes on her. Even watching her, helps some of the sharpest parts of my desire dull. I’ll guard her as she sleeps. I’ll wait for her to be ready for me again, and I’ll enjoy the warmth of her embrace and siphon as much pleasure from her as I can before she needs to rest once more.

My whole kingdom is asleep. The excitement of tonight taking its toll on everyone.

Even though my body is exhausted, my heart and mind are alert. Need, raw and hot, pulses through me. I try and quiet my mind by counting Laurelle’s freckles. I’ve just gotten to number seventy-two when she stirs against my chest.

Her plumb lips part with a sigh as she burrows closer to me. Pride and primal urges dance in my chest. My claws skim up her back and over her delicate shoulder eliciting a small shiver from her. Tracing up her throat, I swallow my growl at my claiming bite. The imprint of my teeth is an unwavering indication of who owns her.

My cock hardens at the sight.

Continuing their exploration, my hands skim back down the soft skin of her back. How can someone be this perfect? This delicate? Her shame and shyness are gone. Eradicated by my touch and I revel in it. I laid claim to her soul—her heart—and I will keep them safe for all eternity.

My claws dig into the fleshy swell of her ass, and Laurelle shifts closer. Her warm breath bathes my throat as her brown, gold-flecked eyes blink open at me. They glow with the magic we created here. The magic that belongs to her and makes her brown skin glow.

Her lips curve into a soft smile. Affection warms her gaze.

A queen is what she is. My queen.

“Why aren’t you sleeping?” Her voice is rough as she cups my cheek. Her thumb gently traces the line of my cheekbone.

“I enjoy watching you too much to rest.”

She laughs, slinging her leg further over my hips and snuggling closer to me. I can feel my dried seed on her leg, and my thoughts turn wicked. I send up a prayer of thanks toThe Great Oakfor putting Laurelle in my path. She’s too perfect for me and I will spend the rest of our lives proving myself worthy of having such a gift as her.

“You’re not tired?” Her voice vibrates against my neck.

“Not tired enough to take my eyes off you.”

She shakes her head, her curls tickling my cheeks. Rising up slightly on her arms, her naked breasts come into view, and my blood heats. Perfect. They filled my hands as if molded for them, and I long to taste them once more.

A grin curves her lips as if she knows what I’m thinking. Clearly, she felt my cock stir to life once more. My hand runs up her neck and tangle in her hair. I let her curls slip through my fingers before reaching her flower crown.

It’s beautiful, made of flowers just as wild as her. Nothing is more befitting of my lovely queen. It’s more than an accessory; it shows her permanent place at my side. We will rule this land together, hand in hand, and I will worship her every day of our reign.

“I don’t know how you aren’t sleepy,” she whispers, her hand tracing the muscles of my chest. Biting her lower lip, her face is the picture of innocence. “Maybe you need some help relaxing?”

I get her meaning when her curious hand travels down my stomach. My whole body tights as she wraps her small hand around my cock. It’s already hard and dripping. Even that small touch has seed spilling from the tip.

Knocking back the silk sheets, I expose our naked bodies to the room. Laurelle moans as she glances between us. Her hand barely wraps around my length as she gives me a gentle squeeze. I hiss, and she moans in answer.

Despite loving her touch more than anything, I can’t help but check in on her.

“You don’t have to do this, Laurelle.” My claws dig into her waist. “I know you’re exhausted. Sleep. My cock will still be hard when you wake. That I promise you.”

Instead of releasing me, she gives another tight pump of her fist, and I groan. Wickedness gleams in her brown eyes as she rolls on top of me. Her lips press against mine, and I cup her head. I’m lost to her sweet mouth. Her small hand pumps my cock in time with her thrusting tongue. It makes my head spin.

We’re both breathless as we pull apart. My shaft is trapped between my abs and her soft stomach. Pressing our foreheads together, Laurelle smirks at me. A powerful queen merely toying with her willing subject.

“You said we weren’t leaving until you claimed all my holes,” I growl as she places a soft kiss on my chest. “I woke up with this craving, my king. Shall I tell you about it?”

“Yes,” I growl as she licks over one of my nipples. My wild and wanton Laurelle. “I command you, reveal all your desires.”