Hunted in Holly

Chapter 9

I sat atop the highest cliff in my domain, watching Caroline from my superior vantage point.

It was a joy observing the way she built herself a small home from near nothing. Her knowledge of snowscapes, nature, and survival was a wonderful asset. From her craftiness to her fight, she was endlessly perfect for me, and I loved all the little ways she showed me that.

Next, she stopped to enjoy a quick meal. The look on her face as she took the first bite of gingerbread was enough to have me adjusting myself in my pants. Pure pleasure painted her frost reddened expression, and the tiny moan that slipped from her lips was a songbird’s melody.

Keep your energy up, Sweet Noel.

Though I knew my chefs were the best to ever live, it was good to see they were up to her unique personal standards. I already had them researching typical Southern cuisine to surprise her at our wedding, but I would have plenty of time to collect more information on her favorite foods and desserts in our coming life together. I looked forward to introducing her to more Northern flavors as well. The many, many ways I would spoil her once she was mine .

Caroline took the rest of her gingerbread and slipped into her makeshift shelter. She sealed the entrance, settling in for the night, staying exactly where I’d left her. She made no effort to run or hide to some new, obscure place. It was obvious how much she enjoyed our game by the fact that she made it so easy to find her.

At first, I’d worried I may have scared her too much today. I’d contemplated letting her think I overlooked her fox burrow—it was expertly crafted, and I only noticed it at all because of the absolute pounding of her heartbeat—but I enjoyed the way her body reacted to terror far too much to resist. I had to have her in my hands, or I would have lost my mind.

She was such fun. Tomorrow would surely be even better.

But for tonight, I’d stand watch. There were many a monster in these hills, and I wouldn’t have a single one of them messing with my prey. The Yetis and Snow Beasts were trained to devour any intruders in my realm, but they couldn’t distinguish my honored guests from my enemies.

To be fair, I’d never had an honored guest.

I’d had many, many enemies, however.

No sooner had I finished the thought, did a shadow twitch on the ledge just above hers.

I narrowed my eyes, and I watched as that shadow grew larger, with black claws darkening her shelter roof. Another beast appeared on the stone wall beneath her, climbing with hungry intent towards my queen.

With a flick of my wrist, I built a blade from pure fire.

I’d do this quietly. I wouldn’t want to wake her.