Page 36 of Echoes From the Void

He’s right.

We’re just getting started.

Chapter 13

Frankie

Early morning lightfilters through Shadow Locke’s empty corridors as Bishop’s claiming still pulses through me—a heady mix of power, vulnerability, and raw connection that’s changed everything. The bond thrums inside me, bright and alive, connecting me not just to Bishop but to the others waiting. A new sense of purpose fills me, one I can’t ignore any longer.

Leo is next.

The pull toward him feels different than it did with Bishop. Where Bishop was strength and stability, the slow deep burn of a connection years in the making, Leo is pure light and warmth—an explosion of energy that draws everyone into his orbit.

I find him in the tower’s common room, sprawled across the couch with his head buried in mismatched cushions. His arm shields his eyes, exhaustion evident in every line of his body despite the scents of chocolate and vanilla that fill the room. My heart clenches at the sight—this man who carries everyone else’s happiness even when his own shoulders sag beneath the weight.

“Leo,” I whisper.

His arm shifts, one green eye blinking up at me. He grins despite the shadows under his eyes. “Hey there, alpha. Come to steal my cookies again?”

I can’t help smiling. “Not this time. Though I wouldn’t turn one down if you’re offering.”

He sits up, patting the cushion beside him. “Always got one for you, Frankie.” He reaches for a plate on the coffee table, but his eyes search my face. “You look different,” he says, curiosity warming his tone. “Something happened last night?”

I take the offered cookie, but my attention stays fixed on him. On the way his smile softens, the way he watches me with that familiar light in his eyes—the one that’s always said he’s here, no matter what. “Yeah,” I say, voice low. “Something important.”

Leo’s grin widens, excitement sparking in his expression. “Bishop, huh?” He sets the plate down, leaning closer. “I can feel it. The bond. It’s clearer now.”

“It is.” I let the bond flare between us, letting him feel everything—the heat of Bishop’s devotion, the strength of our connection. Leo’s breath catches, his eyes darkening.

“Damn,” he breathes, voice raw. “That’s... wow.”

“It is.” I reach for him, cupping his cheek. He leans into my touch, eyes fluttering shut for a moment. “Leo, you don’t have to hold back anymore. I’m ready. If you are.”

For a heartbeat, silence stretches between us. Then Leo’s face splits into that brilliant, joyous grin I’ve come to need like air. “You kidding? I’ve been ready since forever.” He pulls me into his lap in one fluid motion. I laugh, the sound bright and free, as his arms wrap around me.

“No more waiting, then,” I murmur against his lips.

“No more waiting,” he echoes, and then he’s kissing me like he’s been dying to, like he’s been dreaming of this moment. Where Bishop was careful restraint until he broke, Leo is pure, unfiltered passion. His hands roam my back, pulling me closer as his shadows curl around us, wrapping us in his essence.

My knees settle on either side of him and my hands grip his hair, exposing his throat to my lips. Without an ounce ofhesitation, I bite down. His hips come up pressing his cock into my core and a different need settles deep inside of me.

He shivers as I trail kisses down his neck, his pulse racing under my lips.

“Frankie,” he whispers, my name a prayer on his lips. His hands roam my sides, sending shivers down my spine, stoking the fire within me. The bond between us pulsates, growing stronger, more vibrant with each touch.

Leo’s warmth is intoxicating, his joy contagious. It’s like basking in sunlight after a long, snowy night. His hands find the hem of my shirt, slipping underneath to caress my skin. I gasp at the contact, my body yearning for more. I help him pull the shirt over my head, my hair cascading down my back. His eyes, greener than ever, take me in with such reverence it makes my heart swell.

“You’re so beautiful, Frankie,” he murmurs, his fingers tracing patterns on my skin, sending delightful shivers through me. I feel his desire echoing mine, our bond amplifying every sensation. It’s exhilarating, overwhelming, and I never want it to stop.

My hands explore the planes of his chest, feeling the heat of his skin through the thin fabric of his shirt. I tug at the hem, impatient to feel more of him. Leo chuckles, a low, rich sound that sends warmth pooling in my belly.

“Someone’s eager,” he teases, but he’s already lifting his arms, helping me pull the shirt off. The sight of him, all tanned skin and lean muscle, makes my breath catch. I trace the lines of his collarbone, marveling at the way his skin seems to glow in the early morning light.

Leo’s hands settle on my hips, his thumbs tracing circles on my skin. “You have no idea how long I’ve wanted this,” he murmurs, his voice husky. “How long I’ve wanted you.”

I lean in, pressing my forehead to his. “Show me,” I whisper, and he groans, pulling me closer.

Our lips meet again, and this time there’s no holding back. The kiss is deep, passionate, full of all the longing we’ve both been carrying. I feel Leo’s shadows wrapping around us, warm and comforting, as his hands roam my back, unhooking my bra.

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