Chapter 47: Caught In The Devils Web
Ariana’s body shifted slightly as her eyes fluttered open, moving with the rhythm of her breath. A strong arm wrapped around her waist, holding her securely, while warm breath fanned softly against her neck. Her body remained unmoving. The weight behind her, the feeling of his face nestled against the crook of her neck—it was unmistakable.
Zavren.
His presence was overwhelming and hard to ignore.
Her heart fluttered as realization dawned. Was he asleep? she wondered, biting back a gasp. Her hand slowly moved to the arm that held her, careful not to stir him. Gently, she traced her fingers along the veins on the back of his large hand.
Wait, wasn’t she supposed to pull away and stand? But if she did, where would she go? She had already planned on staying here, given the gown she was wearing.
At some point in her sleep, her gown must have ridden up—too much movement, perhaps—because now it rested awkwardly on her upper lap. Embarrassment bloomed in her chest, and just as she moved to tug the fabric down, Zavren pulled her closer.
Tightly.
Her breath hitched as her hands stilled, placing but not moving so as not to wake him. She would not want him seeing her in such a state. Her shoulder brushed his bare chest—bare?—and her back now pressed against the hard lines of his body. Her face flushed with heat as she realized the gown had shifted further up, her panties now exposed.
Oh no...
She stilled, heart pounding, when his hand slipped lower... and landed on her thigh.
A soft gasp escaped her lips.