Page 12 of Restoring His Howl

“I was showing concern.” Cinders smiled. The lines around his eyes softened, and the deep brown of his irises sparkled.

“Okay.” Dillon could argue, but why? He wasn’t at theWet Dreamscomplex or in danger. Cinders hadn’t run away or seemed disgusted.

Cinders held Dillon close, and Dillon rested his head on Cinders’ shoulder. Cinders rubbed Dillon’s arm. “I knew there was a group. I never knew the name, but I’d heard about it. The guy who ranStiffmust’ve had connections. He never forced anyone, but he tried to pimp out a few of the dancers. He preyed on the ones with drug problems or the really young ones. He’d tell us he was keeping us safe, but he really just wanted money.”

Dillon sagged against Cinders. “I’m sorry. I’m messed up, and I don’t trust. I don’t want to get close to anyone. I’m scared you’ll fuck me up more than I already am.”

“You’re safe with me and here at the Sanctuary.” Cinders sighed. “I won’t let anyone do anything you don’t want. I guarantee Markas, Ryan and the others will agree with me.”

“Thanks.” He closed his eyes. Being honest had worn him out. His wolf settled, too. Dillon yawned. “Will you stay with me tonight?” The words came out faster than he had time to think them through. Did he want to cross this line? Could he? He had no choice. He’d already asked the question. Unless Cinders turned him down, he’d have to face the decision.

“You want me here?” Cinders asked. “You’re sure?”

“I am.” He nodded as if to cement his words.

“I’d love to. Stretch out. Do whatever you want to get comfortable. I’ll follow your lead.” Cinders brushed his nose along Dillon’s. “I want to hold you and make you feel safe.”

“Thank you.” He scrambled under the covers and kept his clothes on. He stretched out on his back and watched Cinders settle beside him. Cinders rested on his side and faced Dillon. He draped his arm across Dillon’s belly.

“I’ll be a gentleman. Promise,” Cinders whispered. He closed his eyes and nuzzled Dillon’s neck. “If you feel threatened, speak up.”

Dillon had felt safe at the Sanctuary—alone but safe. For the first time since he’d shifted, he’d found someone he wanted to spend the night with—Cinders. His wolf calmed and drifted to sleep. If the wolf wasn’t upset, then Dillon would be able to sleep, too. He could do this without regrets. Being with someone was possible.

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