Protected by Artemis (Gods and Beasts #3)

5. Artemis

Chapter 5

Artemis

W hen is this wolf going to wake up?

Artemis lay beside Cade, her eyes fixed on his sleeping form. As a goddess, she didn’t need sleep or food in the same way mortals did, though indulging in those activities had their benefits. Still, they weren’t part of her personality. She’d rather be out doing something, anything , else.

She shifted to lie on her side, watching his peaceful slumber. A mischievous grin spread across her face as she leaned closer and blew into his ear. His face twitched, but he didn’t wake. Not easily deterred, she conjured a feather and gently tickled his nose. He shook his head and rolled to his side, facing her. She barely stifled her laughter, deciding more drastic measures were needed. She slapped his forehead lightly.

Cade jolted awake, blinking in confusion.

“Hey, you’re awake!” she exclaimed.

“What?” he mumbled groggily. He squinted at her, slowly registering her presence. “What time is it?”

“Eight a.m.,” she replied cheerfully.

“Oh, that’s four a.m. for me with the time difference,” he groaned.

“You’re affected by that?”

“Yes, of course,” he grumbled. “Probably even more so since we’re connected to nature more than other humans.” He sighed and scrubbed his face with his hand.

She smiled and inched closer to him, feeling him stiffen. “I’m not going to jump you. I just like cuddling. It’s nice to be close to someone, right?”

“I guess,” he muttered, frowning.

“Don’t worry, I’m also the goddess of chastity.”

“What?” he asked, giving her a bewildered look.

She took a deep breath to prepare herself mentally. Well, she had to tell him at some point. Besides, it was too late for him to back out of their arrangement now. “I’m a virgin. So, I’m not doing this because I’m trying to seduce you.”

“Right. Wait, how old are you?”

“More than thirty?—”

“We can’t be the same age,” he cut her off.

“I didn’t say that,” she snapped back. “I’m more than thirty thousand years old…At least, I stopped counting after that.

“Whoa. And in that time, you’ve never had sex? Wasn’t ancient times full of orgies and shit?”

“Yes, it was. But the best way not to get pregnant is not to have sex. But I’m not a total innocent. I’ve had my share of fun,” she said cheekily.

He looked at her incredulously, but he didn’t pull away when she tucked herself into his side. Instead, he relaxed against her warmth, and she nestled closer. “See? Isn’t this nice?”

“Yeah, it is,” he admitted, his voice softer.

She lay still, her breath matching Cade’s. When she finally felt him absentmindedly playing with her hair, she broke the silence. “So how come you don’t have a bedmate or even a mate with you here?”

“Really?” he asked, raising an eyebrow.

“What? You’re an Alpha and hot. It’s a valid question,” she teased.

“I’ve been busy.”

She stared at him. “That’s not the truth.”

He gave her a look, half-amused and half-annoyed. “What do you mean?”

“Remember, I can sense when wolves are not being truthful?”

He sighed. “Okay, you got me.”

“So, what’s the real reason?”

He hesitated, then took a deep breath. “I guess…it’s not just about being busy. It’s more about not wanting to go through the motions with someone who isn’t right. I saw what my parents had; it was real, intense, and worth everything. I don’t want to settle for anything less.”

She nodded. “That makes sense. It’s better to wait for something real than to force something just for the sake of it.”

“I haven’t found a mate yet, and none of my previous bedmates were marriage material,” he sighed.

“Is finding a bedmate the same as finding a mate?”

“Not necessarily. It’s really just about sex.”

“And you haven’t tried to make a match with another pack, like with Geri?”

“No,” he sighed again, deeper this time. “That was different. Geri had always said she didn’t want to find a mate, so I thought a political match would be okay. But I was wrong. Good thing she didn’t end up with Asher.”

“I know, right?” she exclaimed, shaking her head. “That would’ve been too much trouble than what it’s worth.”

He grudgingly laughed. “Yeah, it would’ve been a disaster.”

She shifted slightly, resting her head on his chest. “So, you’re waiting for the real thing? A bonded mate?”

“I guess I am,” he admitted. His hand stilled from where it had been running through her hair. “It’s not easy being an Alpha without one. There’s a lot of pressure, but I want it to be right.”

“You’re supposed to have a family, too, right?”

“Yes, definitely. But having kids is something I’m looking forward to.”

Different emotions skated across his handsome face. Sensing it was time to change the subject, she decided to drop the topic. “So, what’s on the agenda for the alphas today?”

He glanced at the clock and then back at her. “We have a meeting this morning at ten thirty. Because everyone’s from the West Coast,” he pointed out with a hint of a smirk.

She smirked back. “Well, I got some food for you from the buffet,” she said.

“You did?” he said, a smile tugging at his lips.

“Yeah,” she said with a shrug. “I was bored and needed to do something.”

“Alright, let’s see what you think is a proper breakfast.”

She happily got up from the bed, tugging him along to the living room. “Come on, slowpoke,” she teased, glancing back at him with a grin. “We’ve got a day to conquer.”

“Alright, alright. I’m coming,” he grumbled.

The morning light streamed through the windows, casting a warm glow over the living room. She released his hand and gestured to the assortment of food. “I tried to cover all the bases. We’ve got some fresh fruit, yogurt, bacon, eggs, and pastries. Oh, and coffee, of course.”

He reached for a piece of bacon, took a bite, and nodded approvingly. “Not bad. You’ve got good taste.”

“Of course I do,” she said, winking. “I’m a goddess, remember?”

He laughed, shaking his head. “How could I forget?”

As he continued eating, she settled back, watching him with a satisfied smile. “So, what’s the plan for the meeting?”

He took a sip of coffee before answering. “First, we’ll go over the current issues facing the packs: security concerns, territory disputes, and things like that. Then, I’ll bring up the bombing. I want to see if anyone slips up or gives any clues.”

“And how do you plan to approach it?”

“I’ll play it cool,” he said. “Ask the right questions, observe their reactions.” His phone buzzed, and he quickly read the message. “Xavier says no new leads yet, but he’s still digging. I’ll need to be extra vigilant during the meeting.”

She nodded. “There’s a plus-one social that I’m going to. I just want to check it out, though, of course, I’d rather like to check out the other alphas and see if anyone is guilty.”

“You still have a role to play. Remember?”

She pursed her lips and glowered at him. “Yes, I know. Maybe the other mates and bedmates actually know things. Couldn’t hurt finding out, right?”

“Sure,” he said, smirking. “I have to change for the alphas’ meeting.”

She noticed that he had finished most of the food she had brought him, which made her feel good. But then she realized she needed to change too. This time, she chose a floral mini sundress that she paired with sandals. When Cade came out of the bathroom, she noticed he was staring at her legs again. When their eyes met, she saw him try to shake it off.

“Well, I guess I’ll see you after lunch?” he said.

“Sure,” she replied.

He started to walk out of the bedroom, and she said, “I think you’re forgetting something.” He turned back as she walked up to him. “Aren’t you supposed to scent me?”

“Oh, right.”

“But I think since we cuddled earlier, a hug would be okay?”

“Hmm, sure,” he murmured.

Artemis walked closer and pressed her body against his, wrapping her arms around his neck. He held her close, his arms around her waist.

She knew that this wasn’t necessary. But she remembered the last time and how good it felt to have his hands on her. “On second thought, I’d like a kiss,” she said.

He hesitated, and she thought she had pushed too far. But then he looked into her eyes, and she could feel a pull between them. He finally leaned in and pressed his lips to hers, a soft, lingering kiss that sent shivers down her spine. She tangled her fingers in his hair as she deepened the kiss, her tongue twining with his. When they finally pulled apart, they were breathless. He rested his forehead against hers. “That was…unexpected,” he said against her lips.

“Sometimes, the unexpected is exactly what we need,” she smiled.

He chuckled softly. “You’re something else, Artemis.”

“Don’t you forget it.”

“I’ve noticed that you’ve gotten me to do things that I normally wouldn’t be doing. Shouldn’t be doing,” he said, giving her a look.

She laughed, and she felt his breath hitch. “Well, I’m glad you’re finally having some fun in your life,” she teased.

He smirked and walked out of the villa. She looked in the mirror. Her lips were a little swollen, and she was flushed. It was getting harder not to kiss him. Every time he got close, the warmth of his body, the scent of him, it all made her resolve weaken. She knew she shouldn’t keep letting herself fall like this, but it was impossible to resist. His kisses were amazing, the kind that sent warmth flooding through her, the kind that made her forget everything else.

How many years had passed since the last time she kissed someone? It was probably centuries since she couldn’t even remember what the mortal looked like; it was just a fuzzy image in her memory. She shook her head and straightened her hair. “Let’s see what these plus-ones are like,” she said to herself, grabbing her phone before heading out.

She decided to walk by the beach, taking in the serene view. It had been a while since she had felt the soft sand beneath her feet, the salty breeze in her hair. She watched the waves crash against the shore. Here, on this beautiful island, she found a sense of peace she hadn’t experienced in a long time. But she knew she couldn’t completely escape her thoughts.

As she strolled along the shore, she couldn’t help but reflect on her life over the last couple of years. So much had changed since Hades married Persephone, and Zeus’s duplicity was exposed—how he had cheated to ensure he would rule Olympus. With Zeus locked away, the Olympian council was now down to eleven. She wondered what would happen to the balance of power and how the dynamics would shift.

The past year had brought even more change, with Apollo and Geri falling in love. She was genuinely happy for her brother. He had finally found someone who saw past the facade of the happy-go-lucky playboy. She saw the love between them, how they looked at each other with a future full of hope and dreams. They were building a family, a new chapter for both of them. It warmed her heart to see Apollo so settled and content.

A group of seagulls squabbling over a piece of driftwood, echoed in the clear morning air. The simplicity of the scene contrasted sharply with the complexities of her divine life. But even here, on this beautiful island, she couldn’t completely escape her thoughts. The prophecy of The Fates weighed heavily on her mind, a constant reminder of her unique position and the choices she had made since that day she’d found out the worst news of her life. The day The Fates told her the words that would forever shape her immortal life.

“Artemis, Goddess of the Hunt, you shall bear no brood like yourself, as you are now,” said The Maiden.

“Only mortal children from your womb,” added The Mother.

“And none shall taste the sweet apple of immortality,” concluded The Crone.

As she’d told Cade earlier, she was the goddess of chastity, the eternal virgin. It wasn’t just a title; it was a shield she had willingly embraced. The Fates had told her that ta pedia tis would be mortal, and she couldn’t bear the thought of watching them grow old and die while she remained untouched by time. It was easier to keep her distance, to avoid the pain of loss altogether. It was the reason she remained a virgin. She could’ve slept with mortals or even with any of the gods. She shivered. None of the Greek gods were worth her time.

Ew, no thanks.

She sighed, pushing those thoughts aside. She needed to focus on the task at hand. Finding the culprit behind the bombing was paramount, and the sooner they identified the guilty party, the sooner she and Cade could return to their respective worlds.

But that kiss, or rather, those kisses.

It had been a while, and kissing Cade was unlike any she had in the past. The way her body reacted to his scenting her made it feel like a kiss was inevitable. It wasn’t just a kiss but felt like something more.

There was something about him, something that stirred emotions she had long buried. The warmth in her chest when she thought of him, the way he looked at her earlier—it all made her wonder if maybe, just maybe, there could be something more.

She shook her head and reminded herself that he was an in-law and it would be best to keep things as drama-free as possible. Yet, a small part of her was reluctant to leave this newfound connection with him behind. It was an unusual feeling for her, one that she was still trying to understand.

Reaching the end of the beach, she turned back toward the resort. There was work to be done, and she was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead. After all, she was Artemis, Goddess of the Hunt. No matter what happened, she would protect those she cared about and bring justice to those who threatened them.

The part of the resort where the socials were being held exuded relaxation, an area with wide open space, cozy bean bags, and a serene Buddha statue. It felt like a sanctuary, a place where mortals gathered to find peace, likely doing yoga or meditating.

A few women and men were already there, mingling and relaxing. She took a deep breath, readying herself for the inevitable judgment from the mortals who would see her youthful appearance, blonde hair, and slim figure, and probably dismiss her as just another “dumb blonde.” She often wondered why she looked the way she did; not all gods appeared as young as she did, not even Apollo.

Shaking off the thought, she reminded herself of her true strength. If only they knew how skilled she was with a bow and arrow or a spear. She didn’t need a rifle or any modern weaponry to take down her prey.

An older woman with silver hair and a kind smile caught her eye, and she decided to approach her. The woman seemed like she might be a mate of one of the alphas. As she neared, the woman greeted her warmly. “Hello there, I’m Candice from Washington, the Olympic Peninsula,” she said, her voice as welcoming as her smile.

She introduced herself as a bedmate of Cade from Anchorage. “Ah yes, Cade. He’s mighty fine, isn’t he?” Candice quipped with a playful wink.

She laughed, finding herself instantly liking Candice. “Yes, he certainly is,” she replied, feeling at ease.

Candice mentioned she had visited Anchorage and enjoyed her time there, sparking a conversation between them about the city’s beauty and charm. They chatted about the stunning landscapes and the unique lifestyle of Alaska.

As they spoke, a woman with stunning dark hair and plenty of curves called for everyone’s attention. She introduced herself as Pauline and welcomed the group warmly. “This is all informal, just something to do while the alphas are busy,” she explained, her voice smooth and inviting. “But the spa is available for massages or any other service you might like.”

The group appreciated the gesture, and some immediately headed into the spa. Candice shook her head. “You know, I have a massage appointment later in the day with my Alpha. How about you? Any interest in a massage?”

“No, not really.”

Candice raised an eyebrow and leaned in, lowering her voice conspiratorially. “You know, Pauline has always had a thing for Cade.”

Artemis smiled, finding the gossip amusing. “Really?” she said, taking the bait. She had to find out more. For the investigation, of course. Maybe Pauline was a spurned lover who wanted revenge.

Candice nodded, clearly enjoying the conversation. “Yes, really. Pauline’s pack is close to the Andersen pack. But even with all her maneuvering, Cade has only ever seen her as a friend. Sometimes it’s a little sad, but she keeps trying, and he keeps treating her like a friend.”

“So, they’ve never?—”

“Nope,” Candice said. “Never, as far as I know.”

Artemis glanced over at Pauline, who was busy chatting with some of the other guests. She wondered what Cade didn’t see in her. Pauline was undeniably attractive, with her dark hair and striking features. But there was a certain cunning in her eyes that made Artemis wary.

“Maybe he just isn’t interested,” Artemis mused aloud.

Candice shrugged. “Maybe. But it’s not like Cade to overlook someone so determined. Pauline’s tried everything short of outright declaring her feelings. And who knows, maybe he does know and just doesn’t reciprocate.”

Artemis nodded thoughtfully. “Could be. I wouldn’t know.”

“But that’s pack life for you. Always some drama going on.”

Artemis found herself glancing at Pauline again, her mind turning over the possibilities. If Pauline did have a grudge or unrequited feelings for Cade, it could complicate things.

Pauline continued with her announcements, her voice carrying a touch of amusement. “For those interested, there’s also a billiard and game room available. If you’re looking for something a bit more hands-on, we have a cooking lesson showcasing local cuisine and a crafts room for those who enjoy being creative. But of course,” she added with a wink, “if you’d like to lounge on the beach, that’s the best thing to do, in my opinion.”

The group murmured in appreciation, some discussing their plans for the day. Artemis noted the variety of activities and decided she would take a break and do something fun.

“How about the cooking lesson?” Candice suggested. “It’s always fun to learn new recipes.”

Artemis smiled. “That sounds wonderful. Let’s do it.”

They headed toward an outdoor kitchen with a view of the ocean. The instructor, a local chef with a warm smile, greeted them and began explaining the dishes they would be preparing. The group gathered around, listening attentively, and asking questions. The cooking lesson was centered around conch dishes, a type of shellfish and a local specialty in the Turks and Caicos. The chef, a tall man with a broad smile and a thick accent, demonstrated how to prepare conch fritters, conch salad, and conch chowder.

As they worked, Artemis found herself genuinely enjoying the cooking class. She and Candice laughed together as they chopped vegetables and mixed ingredients, sharing stories and learning from each other. The chef guided them through each step, and soon the air was filled with the delicious aromas of their creations.

The cooking lesson was well underway when Pauline checked in, and Candice nudged Artemis subtly, whispering, “Pauline’s pack is hosting the convention. I guess she’s handling all the socials for the plus ones.”

Artemis chuckled but kept her focus on the lesson. She noted Pauline making her rounds before she stopped by their workstation. Pauline greeted Candice with air kisses. “Candice, always a pleasure.”

“Pauline, this is Artemis, Cade’s bedmate,” Candice responded with a mischievous smile.

Pauline stiffened visibly, her eyes narrowing slightly as she turned to Artemis. “Artemis, is it? Welcome.” Her tone was polite, but there was an underlying edge to it.

Artemis smiled, refusing to be intimidated. “Thank you, Pauline. It’s a pleasure to meet you.”

Pauline’s eyes flicked over Artemis, taking in her appearance with a critical gaze. “I suppose Cade’s tastes have changed. I remember him being more…selective.”

What did she just say to me? Skila!

Artemis felt a flicker of irritation but kept her tone light. “And I suppose some people never change, still stuck on unrequited feelings.”

Pauline’s eyes flashed with anger, but she quickly masked it. “Enjoy the lesson,” she said dismissively, turning on her heel and walking away.

Candice let out a low whistle. “Well, that was something. You handled her well.”

“She doesn’t intimidate me,” Artemis shrugged, still feeling the adrenaline from the exchange.

“Good. Because it looks like you’re in for an interesting few days.”

By the end of the lesson, they had a table full of delicious conch dishes. Everyone sampled the food, praising the chef and each other. Artemis felt a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. She glanced at Candice, who was beaming. “This was a great idea,” Artemis said. “Thank you for suggesting it.”

Candice nodded. “I’m glad you enjoyed it. Sometimes, it’s nice to take a break, and we got to eat yummy food too.”

They left the cooking area, the taste of fresh conch lingering on Artemis’s tongue as she steeled herself for the challenges ahead. The morning had been a mix of tension and distraction, but she felt more prepared than ever to face whatever came next.

Candice said goodbye, mentioning she had to meet her mate, and suggested they have drinks later. Artemis agreed, and after parting ways, she decided to relax on the beach. Back at the villa, she used her magic to change into a bikini and a cover-up, adding her wide-brimmed hat to complete her look.

The weather was perfect when she stepped out of the villa, with a gentle breeze carrying the scent of the ocean. She walked out to the beach and settled on a lounge chair before ordering an iced tea. The tranquility of the beach surrounded her, but she felt a bit antsy, knowing she hadn’t yet had the opportunity to check out another alpha. Scanning the beach, she noticed it was mostly empty, save for another woman lounging nearby. She figured the alphas were still in their meeting.

Her phone buzzed with a text from Cade. She replied, telling him she was on the beach, and he texted back, saying he would meet her there. Even though she was under an umbrella, the sun still felt hot on her skin. She looked around to check if anyone was looking before conjuring a bottle of sunblock. Once she was done applying it, she looked up and saw him approaching.

He was a striking figure, and as he neared her, she couldn’t help but appreciate the way his body looked under the sun. He was wearing swim shorts that accentuated his powerful build and muscles. She caught herself staring at him as she remembered their kiss, feeling a tightness in her belly. Wait, is this lust I’m feeling? She quickly plastered a smile on her face.

“Enjoying the beach?” he asked, his voice a deep rumble as he reached her chair.

“I am,” she replied, sitting up and pressing her thighs together. “It’s peaceful here.”

He sat on the lounge chair next to her, stretching out his long legs. “Good. We could both use some downtime.”

She handed him her iced tea, and he took a sip, his gaze wandering over the waves. “The meeting was productive but draining. We have a lot to sort out.”

She nodded. “I can imagine. Anything I need to know?”

“Not yet. But we’ll get there. How was the plus-one social?”

“Interesting. I met Candice, and we joined a cooking lesson. Pauline made an appearance too.”

His brow furrowed. “Pauline? How did that go?”

“Let’s just say she wasn’t thrilled to meet me.”

He sighed, leaning back. “She’s…complicated.”

“Seems like it. But I’m here for the mission, not to make friends.”

“True. But it doesn’t hurt to have allies.”

“I’ll keep that in mind,” she said, watching as a seabird flew overhead. “What did the app say?”

He checked the results of the scans of the alphas from the meeting. “The app didn’t find anything,” he said, sounding a bit frustrated.

She sighed. “It seems like we’re hitting dead ends.”

“It may seem like that,” he replied, “but finding out that the alphas aren’t involved is a good thing. But we still have a couple more to check out.”

“Okay,” she said, appreciating his point of view.

“I’m hoping to talk to one alpha, John Robertson the third. He’s a nice enough guy, but he wasn’t at the alpha meeting or the welcome cocktails.”

“What does he look like?” she asked.

“He’s…oh, there he is.”

She looked toward where he gestured and spotted a lone man at the far end of the beach, reading a book. When she turned back to Cade, she caught him staring at her ass. “That him?” she asked, pointing.

He smiled and stood up, nodding. “Yeah, that’s him. Come on.”

“Wait,” she said, slipping on her cover-up and hat. “The sun is out.”

She started walking, and the brim of her hat hit his shoulder. He made a face, but before he could say anything, she muttered, “Don’t even start.”

He put up his hands and smiled.

“Hmph,” she huffed and linked her arm with his. They started walking toward the man, who was engrossed in his book.

John Robertson III was a tall man with a neatly trimmed haircut and a lean, athletic build. Even while reading a book, his demeanor exuded efficiency and discipline, and his serious brown eyes missed nothing. When he noticed them, he scowled, obviously not pleased to see them walking up to him.

His expression was guarded while Cade introduced her, and then John’s phone rang. He pulled out a flip phone, the kind that didn’t have apps or internet access, and answered it. “One second,” he said, turning away slightly.

Cade and Artemis exchanged a look. What are we going to do now?

“Okay, I’ll go back to the villa and we can have a late lunch,” John said into the phone, then hung up.

She took the opportunity to sit down on the lounge chair next to John, facing him. She took a deep breath and started chatting him up, asking him about his day. John gave Cade a look that clearly said, handle your woman.

Cade shrugged and sat next to her. She pressed against him, and he wrapped his arm around her, his hand resting on her hip.

She smiled at John, who was still eyeing her warily. “So, what are you reading?”

John hesitated before answering. “It’s a book about Motown music and Berry Gordy.”

“Oh, I saw his groups perform. They were excellent,” she gushed, leaning forward slightly. Apollo was also the God of Music, and he hung around the Motown scene, inspiring Berry and the other producers and artists. She was able to watch performances, not just from that era but through the years.

John made a face. “You saw him? That’s impossible. What are you, twenty years old?”

“We watched a documentary,” Cade interjected, squeezing her arm.

She looked at Cade and laughed, quickly covering her slip. “Ah, of course. I didn’t see them perform in person,” she giggled, hoping that this time acting like a dumb blonde worked in her favor.

“Yeah, those old performances are something else,” John said and he seemed to buy her explanation.

“They really are,” she agreed, leaning against Cade a bit more. She continued to chat with John, gradually softening him up. They talked about music, the challenges of leading a pack, and the beauty of the beach. As they spoke, John relaxed more, opening up bit by bit.

“I should get going,” John checked his watch. “I have lunch with my partner.”

“Of course,” Cade said, standing up with Artemis. “It was good chatting with you.”

John nodded, giving them a small, reluctant smile. “No problem. See you around.”

They sat back down on the lounge chair, and she turned to Cade. “He is not on the guilty list,” she said confidently.

“I have the same feeling,” he nodded. “We’ll keep an eye on him, just in case.”

She felt a surge of determination. They were making progress, and she was ready to see this through to the end. “I hope he’s the only alpha with an old-school flip phone.”

They both laughed, and she noticed how nice Cade’s smile was when he actually relaxed.

“Thanks for the save,” she said. She couldn’t pull her eyes off his lips and leaned closer. “Good thing he bought it.”

“Yeah, he did. Didn’t he?” he said, closing the distance between them.

She could feel his warm breath against her skin, and her pulse quickened. Mmm, are we going to kiss again?

“There you are.”

Artemis looked up and saw Pauline walking over to them, her curves barely covered by a string bikini.

Na tin pali i skila. What is she doing here?

Cade greeted her and introduced her to Artemis, mentioning they were good friends and had even gone to the same college.

“Oh, we met earlier,” Pauline said, immediately dismissing Artemis as she directed her attention to Cade. “I need to talk to you,” she said, grasping his hand to pull him aside and standing close to him.

Artemis watched them, noticing how comfortable Cade seemed around Pauline, though he wasn’t touching her. When Pauline’s gaze flicked over to Artemis with a hint of challenge, Artemis decided it was best to leave them alone, just in case there was something between the two.

She stood up and announced, “I’m going to the villa to freshen up.” She had barely taken a few steps when Cade called out to her. Turning around, she saw him walking toward her with her hat.

“You forgot this,” he said, placing it on her head.

She smiled, but it felt forced, and despite her best efforts to hide her discomfort, she noticed him giving her a look she couldn’t quite interpret. As she walked away, she could hear Pauline talking to him, her voice carrying. “Good that she took the hint that we have something important to talk about.”

By the time she reached the villa, she felt out of sorts but couldn’t pinpoint why. Maybe it was the way Pauline had so easily dismissed her, or perhaps it was seeing Cade so at ease with someone else. She shook her head, trying to dispel the unsettling thoughts.

She sat on the pool steps, leaning back and savoring the quiet. The cool water lapped at her skin, a soothing contrast to her racing thoughts running at 1000 percent. Why were these feelings swirling inside her? Cade was undeniably attractive, with his rugged looks and those intense eyes that seemed to see right through her. But they were here on a mission, and she needed to stay focused.

Yet, those kisses…They lingered in her mind, soft and tantalizing. And it was so easy to talk to him, to slip into the role of his bedmate without a second thought. Was she mixing things up? She shouldn’t be. After all, he was technically her brother-in-law.

The sound of the door opening broke her reverie, and without thinking, she slipped into the water, floating on her back. The pool embraced her, and she let the water carry her worries away for a moment. She heard his steps, and soon he was at the edge of the pool. Ignoring him, she continued to float, eyes closed against the sky.

“You want to tell me what’s going on?” he asked, his voice a soft rumble.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” she replied, not looking at him.

“That’s not the truth,” he said.

“What?” she turned to look at him.

“I have my own bullshit meter,” he said with a smirk.

“My power is not a bullshit meter,” she said, glaring at him as she started to swim toward him. She felt a flicker of annoyance, a welcome sensation amidst the confusion. This, she could understand.

They stared at each other, a war of wills between them. She started to walk toward him. “How is it you walking through the pool is sexy?” he muttered. It seemed like he didn’t realize he’d said it out loud.

She stepped out of the pool, the warm air brushing against her damp skin as she reached for a towel. She quickly wrapped it around herself, dabbing at her hair and shoulders, then began drying off as she moved toward the villa.

He followed closely behind, and even though she couldn’t see him, she could feel him. His eyes roamed over her, tracing the curve of her back, down her legs, and then back up again. Her pulse quickened with every step she took, a warm, tingling sensation spreading through her at the weight of his gaze.

“Talk,” he demanded.

She sighed and faced him. “I didn’t want to be a cock block, so I thought it would be good to leave you two alone.”

“What are you…?” He looked genuinely confused. “You’re talking about Pauline? She’s a friend.”

She could feel through her power that he was telling the truth. It reassured her, but she couldn’t help wondering why it did. He was still looking at her, trying to figure her out.

She draped the towel over her shoulders, trying to focus on drying off, but her mind kept drifting to him. The air between them was thick with anticipation, and she felt a rush of excitement deep in her belly. She glanced back at him, catching the look in his eyes—intense, hungry.

Excitement flared within her. Maybe he was feeling the same as she was—just as confused, attracted, and turned on. “Do you still want to know?” she asked.

“What?” he said, clearly caught off guard.

“You said you wanted to know what’s going on.” By then, she was right in front of him. His eyes roamed her form before locking back onto hers.

“You’ve been a gentleman,” she said, stepping closer until her body brushed against his. “But I don’t want you to be one.”

Her hand reached out, touching his shoulder. She felt him stiffen at the contact before he relaxed, his eyes darkening with desire. She could see the struggle in his gaze, the same internal battle she was fighting.

“Artemis,” he murmured, his voice husky.

She leaned in, her breath mingling with his. “I’m tired of just practicing, Cade.”

He closed his eyes, and she held her breath. But then his hands moved to her waist, pulling her closer. “Me too,” he whispered.

Cade leaned toward her, and her heart hammered in her chest as his lips barely brushed hers. The touch was so light, so fleeting, but it set her entire being ablaze. The kiss, despite its softness, was consuming—like a wave that pulled her under, drowning her in sensation.

He pulled back a fraction, and she opened her eyes, her gaze locking with his. His expression was conflicted, torn between desire and restraint. “We shouldn’t.”

“That’s what I thought too,” she whispered, her fingers clutching at him as if letting go would mean losing him forever. “But you feel it, too, don’t you?”

He closed his eyes for a moment, pressing his forehead against hers. Tension radiated from him, like he was fighting a battle within himself. “Yes,” he finally admitted, his voice barely audible, but the word sent a shiver through her. She felt the truth in it, the rawness of his confession.

But even as he said it, she could feel him holding back, as if admitting it would unravel him completely.

“I’m not ready to have sex yet,” she said, but she couldn’t help the teasing smile that tugged at her lips. “But we can do other things.” She let her fingers trail down his chest, feeling the tension beneath his skin. “Would that change your mind?” she asked, her words a gentle dare.

He hesitated, and Artemis could see the conflict in his eyes. The way he battled with himself, how he was torn between what he wanted and what he thought was right. She didn’t wait for him to decide. Instead, she tightened her grip around him and flashed them to the bedroom, the massive bed looming behind them.

“Kiss me,” she demanded, her voice steady but laced with urgency. She needed him to give in, just for a moment, just to see if he felt what she did.

Cade’s gaze faltered for a second, and his lips hovered close to hers, the heat between them almost unbearable.

And then, he kissed her. It wasn’t soft or hesitant—it was everything she had been waiting for. His kiss was fierce, consuming, and filled with the same longing. She clung to him, her heart racing, knowing this was more than just a moment—this was the beginning of something they could no longer deny.

Her softness pressed against the hard planes of his body, and she could feel every inch of him respond to her touch. Her fingers glided down the length of his arms, tracing the firm muscles that tightened under her fingertips. She felt his reaction pressed between them, a tangible reminder of the pull they both fought against. The heat of his breath against her neck sent shivers down her spine, and she tilted her head back, giving in to the sensation, her heart pounding in sync with the rush of desire coursing through her.

“No, no,” he muttered against her neck, taking a deep breath.

She had had enough. Here she was, wanting him, willing to do things with him. Well, not sex, but still, stuff, and he was trying to deny her? Her mouth found his neck, savoring the subtle shudder that ran through him.

She threaded her fingers through his hair and pulled him down to her. “Give me what I want,” she demanded against his lips. Her mouth locked over his, and she moaned when his hand dragged down, then clutched her butt, kneading it and pulling her even closer.

Everything about him—the strength, the control he tried so hard to keep—drove her wild. She could feel it slipping, his restraint faltering. She could also feel the undeniable thickness of his erection pressed against her belly. She met his eyes. “You’re hard. You want me.”

“So?” he groaned when she twisted her hands in his hair.

“It must hurt. Don’t you want to feel good?”

“It wouldn’t be the first time,” he muttered, then lifted her.

Finally. She immediately wrapped her legs around his hips and could feel him through her soaked bikini. But she needed more and rocked against him, trying to get some relief from the need that she felt. “Did you jerk off thinking about me?”

He nodded as he kissed the swell of her breasts. She tugged his hair, pulling him away from her breasts and nipples, which were painful points that she would have loved for him to suck.

“Show me what you did,” she said, untangling herself from him and sitting on the bed. The way he looked at her through hooded eyes made her sex clench. There was no going back. “Take off your shorts and show me. Now.”

His eyes glittered with a sensual flare, his breath loud as he untied his shorts and took out his arousal. He clenched his fist around it and started to stroke, the ridges of his stomach flexing with each pump. Watching Cade in this intimate act, knowing that it was because of her, that she told him to do it, made her feel dizzy, and even more slick and wanting.

She moved up the bed, and he immediately followed, kneeling on the edge before her. She spread her legs and placed her knees outside his. “What were you thinking about?” She pressed her thighs against his and liked how he groaned. She reached for his other hand and dragged it between her breasts. He leaned closer, and she held his gaze, guiding his hand closer to where she really needed him.

“Don’t even think about it,” he growled. “No way am I touching that virgin pussy without actually fucking it.”

Gods. Those dirty words made her want him even more. How is this happening?

“Yes, you will because I want you to make me come,” she said, hooking her fingers into her bikini and taking it off. For good measure, she took off her top too.

He hissed. “Is that what the lady wants?”

The way he looked at her made her squirm and squeeze her thighs together. He seemed larger than life, all corded muscle and lust steaming off him. And he hadn’t stopped jacking off, his hand moving faster in a way that made her think of how it would feel to be the one giving him pleasure. She was mesmerized by him, and all she could do was nod as she kneeled in front of him.

It seemed like that was all Cade needed because, in the next instant, his arm was around her back and dragging her close so that her clit was positioned over his dick. Rough hands gripped her ass, guiding her to slide up and down his length. A surprised gasp escaped her, and she hooked her arms around his neck, trying not to lose herself in the sensations.

“That’s it. Rub your clit on my cock,” he groaned before kissing her. The instant their mouths connected, the kiss deepened. Her fingers slid into his hair, tugging him closer as the heat between them built, quickly spiraling out of control. Every touch of his lips, every brush of his hands made her ache for more.

Somehow, their bodies grew even hotter, moving against each other with even more intensity, and Artemis could feel her orgasm arching from deep within her. She bore down on him, and her slickness helped her move faster. She didn’t even know what she needed, but she knew that he could give it to her. Her thighs shuddered against his, and she found the right angle that made her moan. “N-now, Cade,” she barely got out.

Their gazes locked, and she rubbed her clit on him like she would die without the friction.

“Am I giving you what you need?”

“ Yes. ”

Her clit started to tingle, and the way her body seized, she was overwhelmed by how good her orgasm would be. When the first wave of sensations exploded through her, she almost screamed, but Cade pressed his forehead against hers, keeping her with him, building the pleasure within her.

“You coming all over my cock?” He kissed her, swallowing her moan. “Can I come?”

“Y-yes. Anywhere you want,” she whispered.

“Fuck, that’s what I want to hear.” His arms tightened around her, and then she was on her back, Cade bearing down on her and making her orgasm peak even more. She held his face and arched against him, moaning his name until she stopped trembling.

“You are so beautiful,” he said, kneeling above her. He gripped his cock, stroking it at a pace that would end his agony. She was still panting beneath him when he came with a roar, his come lashing her breasts before dripping onto her belly.

She watched him, his chest heaving and expanding, as his eyes wandered over her body that he had marked. When their eyes finally met, she reached out for him, and he hovered over her. The gentle kiss he pressed against her lips had her all melty inside, and she tried to pull him down onto her.

“Wait, let me get a towel,” he said, pulling away from her.

“Huh? Oh, right,” she giggled, then snapped her fingers and handed him one. Once he had carefully cleaned her up, he finally lay beside her and gathered her in his arms.

“When you’re ready, I’d like to volunteer to be the first one to have sex with you,” he said into her hair.

“What?” she giggled and looked up at him.

“That was real good,” he grinned. “I can’t even imagine how much better actual sex will be.”

Artemis burst out laughing, and Cade joined her, their giggles filling the room.

“We’ll see,” she said against his lips. “But there’s still a lot more we can do until then.”