Page 74 of Howl You Doin'

The sky had begun to transform, painted in brilliant streaks of orange and pink. Waves lapped at the shore in a gentle rhythm that made Fiona feel more relaxed than she had in months.

Caleb stood and pulled her to her feet. "Come on. I know the perfect spot to watch it."

He led her down the beach to a small cove, where rocks formed a natural seating area. They settled together, Fiona tucked against his chest as the sun began its descent toward the horizon.

"You know, when I first moved to Saltwater Grove, I never imagined I'd end up married to a wolf shifter alpha," Fiona mused, watching the colors deepen in the sky.

Caleb chuckled. "And I never thought I'd trust a fire witch to run my community center. Look how that turned out."

"Your pack's community center," she corrected automatically, then laughed. "Though I suppose it's our pack now."

"It was our pack long before the wedding," Caleb said softly, pressing a kiss to her temple.

The sun touched the horizon, setting the ocean ablaze with golden light.

"Thank you for bringing me here."

"Anywhere with you is perfect," he murmured against her hair.

"When did you get so romantic?" she teased, tilting her face up to his.

"Must be your influence. Don't tell anyone back home - I have a reputation to maintain."

"Your secret's safe with me, alpha."

As the last sliver of sun dipped below the horizon, Caleb stood up, extending his hand to Fiona. "Ready to head back?"

Fiona took his hand, her fingers intertwining with his. "More than ready."

They made their way back to the beach house, a charming structure that blended seamlessly with the natural beauty of the coastline. They walked up the steps and Fiona's heart fluttered with anticipation. She knew that look in Caleb's eyes.

Without warning, Caleb swooped her up into his arms, causing her to let out a surprised yelp that quickly dissolved into laughter. "Caleb, put me down!" she protested, though her arms wrapped around his neck with ease.

"Not a chance," he replied, a playful grin spreading across his face. "I'm embracing the romance."

He carried her over the threshold and into the house. Caleb headed straight for the private porch, where a hot tub bubbled invitingly.

Fiona raised an eyebrow. "Planning on getting lucky, were you?"

"The thought crossed my mind," he admitted, setting her down on the edge of the hot tub. "But only if you're up for it."

"Oh, I'm up for it,"she said with a wink. "But only if you can keep up."

The challenge accepted, they both began to shed their clothing. Fiona's heart raced as she took in the sight of Caleb's muscular form, the moonlight casting a silver glow on his skin.

Naked and unabashed, they stepped into the hot tub, the warm water enveloping them. Caleb pulled her close, his hands spread across her back as they kissed deeply.

"You know," Fiona said between kisses, "for someone who's supposed to be all gruff and alpha-like, you're surprisingly good at this whole romance thing."

Caleb chuckled, his breath tickling her neck. "I've learned a thing or two from you."

Their lips met again, the taste of salt on their tongues as they explored each other's mouths. Fiona's fingers tangled in Caleb's dark hair, pulling him closer.

As they broke apart for air, Fiona let out a contented sigh, her body relaxing against his. She could feel the steady beat of his heart against her chest.

"I love you, Caleb Rivers," she murmured.

"I love you too, Fiona Rivers," he replied. "More than I ever thought possible."

---