Chapter 170
The day started peacefully, a rarity in my life. Sophie had insisted on taking the twins for the day, giving me a break. At first, I was hesitant, but her persistence—and the mischievous sparkle in her eyes—wore me down. Something told me she was up to no good again, but I decided to take the time for myself anyway.
Jake had gone out earlier for pack business, leaving the estate quiet and calm. I wandered outside and found myself staring at the pool. The crystal-clear water glistened under the sunlight, looking impossibly inviting.
Why not?
I went to my room and pulled out a bikini I hadn’t worn in years. It hugged my curves perfectly, the vibrant teal complementing my skin. Normally, I wouldn’t wear something so revealing, but since it was just me, I threw caution to the wind.
The water was cool and refreshing as I dove in, swimming a few laps before floating on my back, basking in the warmth of the sun. I felt free for the first time in ages, completely at ease. A lot had happened so far with the Joseph thing and Tammy . I actually didn't realize how much I needed this. I felt the weight off my shoulders ,do peaceful and the sun made the clear waters look amazing . I took a deep breathe "peace" ,finally.
After a while, I climbed out and sprawled onto a lounger to dry off, the sunlight warming my skin. But the lure of the water was too strong, and I decided to take another dip. I was mid-lap when I felt it—a shift in the air, a tingling awareness that prickled my senses.
He was here.
I froze, glancing toward the entrance. Jake stood there, his broad frame silhouetted against the sunlight, his expression unreadable. His eyes, however, were dark—darker than I’d ever seen them.
“Why are you back so early?” I asked, my voice trembling slightly.
“Sophie asked me to grab her bag,” he said, his voice low and rough, almost a growl.
My stomach dropped. Sophie. Of course.
I quickly swam toward the edge, intending to grab my towel and make a hasty retreat. But as I climbed out, my bikini top betrayed me. The clasp gave way, and before I could stop it, my top fell off.
Horrified, I clutched my chest, hugging myself tightly as heat flooded my face. “Jake, turn around!”
He didn’t. His gaze locked on me, smoldering, his wolf clearly at the surface. The tension crackled in the air as he took a step closer.
“Jake,” I said again, but my voice was softer now, more breathless.
He didn’t speak. Instead, he growled low in his throat, and before I could react, he stepped into the pool fully clothed, the water soaking him as he closed the distance between us.
“Jake!” I squealed, backing up until my back hit the pool wall.
He reached me in seconds, his hands gripping my waist and pulling me flush against him. My breath caught as I felt his warmth through the wet fabric of his clothes.
“You drive me insane,” he murmured, his voice thick with frustration and something deeper.
“Jake, this isn’t—” My protest was cut off as his lips descended on mine, firm and possessive.
My body betrayed me, melting against him as his hands roamed, one sliding down to grip my ass while the other cupped my breast. I gasped, and he took the opportunity to deepen the kiss, his tongue teasing mine.
“Jake,” I tried again, but his lips moved to my neck, then lower, his mouth capturing my nipple. The sensation sent a shockwave through me, and I couldn’t stop the moan that escaped my lips.
“This isn’t fair,” I muttered weakly, my fingers gripping his shoulders for balance.
“Life isn’t fair,” he growled, his lips moving to my other breast.
I wanted to stop him, to remind him that this was his wolf at play, but my resolve crumbled under his touch. His hands, his lips, his presence overwhelmed me, leaving me helpless against the storm he unleashed.
Just when I thought I might completely lose myself, a sound interrupted us—voices.
Two pack members strolled by, their laughter carrying over the fence. Jake stiffened, his wolf fully on edge. He turned slightly, shielding me with his body as his dark eyes fixed on the intruders.
“Leave. Now,” he barked, his voice thunderous.
The men froze, their faces paling before they quickly retreated, mumbling apologies.
When they were gone, Jake turned back to me, his hands still firm on my waist. His eyes searched mine, a flicker of regret mingling with the heat.
“We can’t keep doing this,” he said, his voice low.
I raised an eyebrow, a smirk tugging at my lips despite my racing heart. “You mean you can’t keep resisting me.”
His jaw tightened, and he released me, stepping back and running a hand through his wet hair. “Get out of the pool, Ayla,” he muttered, his tone gruff.
I swam to the edge and climbed out, grabbing a towel to cover myself as I turned to him. “How long are you going to keep pretending this doesn’t mean anything?”
He didn’t answer, his gaze fixed on the water.
Shaking my head, I walked away, my heart pounding. How long could he resist the mate bond? I had accepted my fate already I couldn't resists him because I was in love with him . I could see how he couldn't resist me. I was going to be patient to give him time, even if it meant waiting a little bit long. With the way things were looking, it wasn't going to take that long for him to give in. He just had to let go of the guilt he was carrying for falling for me when he had lost his first mate. However, I believe the goddess had a reason for giving him and I another chance at love .