Bound and Tide (Villains & Virtues)

by A.K. Caggiano

“Xander, I want to…” she panted, back arched as she gazed down at him between heaving breasts. “I need to…I’m sorry, but I love you.” “Oh, gods, I forgot to say!” He popped back up to his feet and gripped onto her waist. “I love you, darling, and it’s marvelous, isn’t it? Just really, really wonderful to be utterly enamored. Wish someone would have bloody told me because this”—he shook her—“feels so fucking good!” Of course, Xander had been told, but after everything, he’s probably earned one more little exaggeration, so we’ll let him have this one. “Not exactly what I was expecting you to say,” she breathed, “but I’m glad.” He kissed her, and it was soft and kind, and it told him she had meant every word she’d ever said to him—that she was fond of him, liked him, loved him. But when he pulled back, she was frowning. “Dearest?” Her eyes darted down between them and then back up. “You’re not finished.” “Yes, ma’am.” Xander licked his lips and sank back to his knees.