Their Secret Obsession by Pippa Moon

Lottie POV

As the euphoria slowly subsided, I remained wrapped in Kane's embrace, our breaths mingling in the quiet aftermath. My hands clung to him, unwilling to let go of this moment that felt like a missing piece of my heart had finally been restored. The warmth of his body

against mine was both a comfort and a reminder of all that we'd endured apart.

But then I felt a subtle trembling coursing through him. Pulling back slightly, I looked up to see tears streaming down his face. He was shuddering, his cheeks blotchy, and his breaths came in ragged gasps as he struggled to steady himself. My heart shattered into a million pieces hearing his words and seeing him like this-the strong, confident Kane brought to such vulnerability. It was as if all the pain he'd been holding back was spilling over, and I felt a crushing guilt that I hadn't realised the depth of his suffering.

"Shh, I'm here now," I cooed softly, trying to soothe him as he gently set me back on the ground. Our hands remained intertwined, neither of us willing to break the connection. The weight of his anguish pressed heavily on my chest, and I wished, more than anything, that I could absorb his pain and take it away somehow.

"Kane," I uttered, reaching up to trail my fingers across his damp cheek, capturing his tears. My eyes searched his, filled with empathy and remorse. His gaze met mine, and something flickered behind those stormy depths-an emotion I couldn't quite place, a mixture of relief, longing, and something else that tugged at my soul.

For a moment, I considered suggesting that we find a way to change our deal with Astaroth, to speak to him about altering the terms so that I could retain my memories. We could face whatever consequences came together. But before I could voice anything, Kane lifted my shirt from the side and gave a small nod for me to lift my arms. Silently, he helped me dress, his hands gentle and loving as he pulled the fabric down over me. His touch was tender, almost reverent, and I realised he needed this-needed to care for me in this simple way to ground himself. He dressed himself quietly, his eyes seldom leaving mine for too long. There was a fragility to him now, a vulnerability I'd never seen before. It was as if he feared that if he looked away, I might disappear. I sensed that helping me dress was the only thing keeping him upright, so I allowed it, offering a small, reassuring smile when he pressed his hand to my stomach, his fingers splayed protectively over our unborn children.

Still battling the occasional sob, Kane knelt before me. His hands slid around my waist as best they could, given my growing belly,

"Sorry", I rushed out, embarrassed by my size.

of him like this-so open, so connected-took my breath away. I felt

for me to catch given the ringing in my ears, but I knew they were rich with love and tenderness. Each murmur sent a warmth coursing through me, knitting together the frayed edges of

so sorry," he choked out,

own voice thick with emotion. "There's nothing to apologise for. We're here now." Ironically, given my earlier anger, I meant every word. He looked up, eyes red-rimmed but filled

afraid I'd lost you forever," he admitted. "I didn't think you would want to be alone with us again." He acknowledged, and for the first time in an hour, I was reminded of Knox and the mess he had caused in the name of love. The anger I had felt towards him earlier tonight seemed totally unfounded now. How broken Kane seemed surely explained Knox's behaviour, did it

whispered as she purred contently at each of Kane's loving touches. "They are both a mess. Rolo says Knox is at breaking point, but Kane

is holding it together.." I snorted back because nothing about seeing the man I love brought to soul-crushing tears gave the impression

so." Sage muttered, our bond letting me know she was just as pained to see her mates broken as I was. I knelt down to his level, our faces

could never lose me," I assured him. "No matter what happens, we're bound together-you, me, Knox

en novelxo

he said, regret shading

both did what we thought was

other's arms on the kitchen floor, the world outside fading into insignificance. Because at that moment, the weight of past hurts and future uncertainties seemed lighter. All that mattered was

can last

memory

Maybe we can find another way." I voiced