The Raven’s Alpha (Nature’s Embrace #1)

Chapter Nine

Darcy Mortlake

As the dreamworld dissolves into the soft light of dawn, I'm drawn to the fleeting sensation of being suspended between wakefulness and slumber. It's a moment of tranquil promise, like the gentle warmth of my alpha's touch, I yearn to awaken each morning to that same sense of security and peace, wrapped in their loving embrace.

Reality has a way of piercing the peaceful haze of morning. When I open my eyes, I'm met with the dissonant note that my lover is no longer beside me, the spot next to me is cold, a stark reminder that my tranquil slumber has been shattered. The scent of freshly brewed coffee wafts in from the kitchen, and my heart stutters as I realise my alpha hasn’t disappeared.

I disentangle myself from the bed, stretching my arms above my head and giving my shoulders a good crack. My body is still reeling from the aftermath of last night's... let's call it 'foreplay', when we got temptingly close to going all the way. The lingering effects of our enthusiastic exertions leave my limbs feeling delightfully limp and languid, like a noodle dish left out too long.

I hastily refresh myself in the bathroom, then rummage through Eddy's dresser, snagging one of his worn t-shirts. My alpha's likely to forgive me this minor misbehaviour, given the morning-after haze that’s still lingering. I pause in front of the mirror, running a hand through my hair to smooth out the tangled mess, and give myself a brief once-over. Satisfied with my appearance, I make my way to the kitchen, where Eddy is expertly plating up breakfast .

Standing in the doorway, mesmerised by the effortless way Eddy moves through the kitchen. His movements are a fluid dance as he opens the fridge to retrieve a jug of orange juice, closing the door with a gentle hip-check and a soft hum escapes his lips as he goes about his morning routine. The warm aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafts through the air, mingling with the sweet but manly smell that my alpha produces, and I'm struck by the realisation that this is what I crave – waking up surrounded by the comforting familiarity of my alpha's presence.

Eddy's voice, with a hint of amusement, cuts through the morning silence, “are you coming to eat or are you going to stand there watching me?” I feel my face heat up, embarrassed that he’s caught me lingering in the doorway. But I'm determined to play it cool.

I stroll over to Eddy, my arms wrapping around his neck like a vice as I pull him into a swooping hug. His 'oof' of surprise is music to my ears as I crash our lips together in a hungry kiss. Our tongues duel in a hot, frenzied rhythm as our hands roam over each other's bodies. Just as I'm about to surrender to the desire building between us, my stomach growls loudly, shattering the spell.

I chuckle, feeling a little embarrassed, and apologise with a sheepish grin.

Eddy smiles warmly at me as he gently takes a hold of my shoulders, guiding me towards the kitchen table. “I wasn't sure what your morning tastes would be, so I went all out and made a little something of everything,” he says, his eyes shining with a hint of amusement.

I slide into the chair, my eyes widening as I take in the spread. Plates are piled high with crispy bacon, juicy sausages, and perfectly cooked eggs, alongside a stack of toasted bread and golden hash browns. The kitchen counter is lined with neat rows of colourful cereal boxes, and a pair of milk bottles stand sentinel beside them. “ Wow, this is quite the feast!” I exclaim, feeling a warmth spread through my chest. “I usually keep it simple for breakfast, but I'd never turn down a hearty fry-up like this.”

When the plates are empty, we sit down on the couch together, cradling our coffee cups. The warmth seeps into my fingers, any of my lingering tension dissipates as I take a sip of the rich brew.

"So, what are your plans for today?" I ask Eddy, trying to keep my tone casual despite the flutter in my chest at potentially spending more time with him.

He looks at me thoughtfully, and for a moment I worry that he might not want to share his plans with me. But then he leans forward, his eyes sparking with a hint of mischief. "I was thinking of heading out to the lake," he says. "Want to come with me?"

I raise my coffee cup to my lips, my eyes meeting his over the rim, and I feel a grin spread on my lips. "I don't really have a life, so you're going to struggle to get rid of me now," I say, trying to sound casual despite the butterflies in my stomach.

"If it were up to me," he says, his voice barely above a whisper, "I'd have you with me all of the time. I'd tuck you in my pocket and carry you around with me everywhere I go."

I glance up at him, searching for any sign of hesitation, but his eyes only hold warmth and devotion. He takes my hand in his, intertwining our fingers. "In fact, I want you to feel comfortable coming here whenever you like," he says, his voice low and husky. "I want this cabin to be your sanctuary, your haven. I know you've got the mansion at the top of the hill, but I want you to know that what's mine is yours."

He leans in closer, his breath caressing my ear as he whispers, "I want to be yours, and I want you to be mine." The words send shivers down my spine as I feel his warm lips tracing the curve of my ear.

My chest heaves as my heart thunders in my ears, threatening to burst free from my ribcage. I can feel the sweat beading on my palms as I grip his hands harder, my fingers digging into his skin in an effort to ground myself. Eddy's eyes lock onto mine, his gaze intense and warm, and I can feel my anxiety begin to dissipate.

"I'd love that," I say, my voice barely above a whisper. "Just promise to tell me if I'm getting under your feet too much."

His smile is slow and gentle, his eyes crinkling at the corners as he leans in closer. "I promise," he says, his voice low. "And I want you to know that I'm just as needy as you are. I need this too." He takes a deep breath, his chest rising and falling as he speaks. "I need us."

I feel a flutter in my chest when I realise that he's not just saying that - he's showing it through his actions.

A couple of minutes later, the sun beats down on us, casting dappled shadows across the forest floor, as we walk to the lake. “How about we shift?” Eddy suggests, his eyes sparkling with excitement. I nod, and within a few seconds, we're both in our shifted forms.

Eddy's grizzly is a blur of fur and muscle as he takes off through the forest, his massive paws pounding against the earth. I rush to catch up, my wings pumping hard as I try to close the gap between us.

As I fly, the trees seem to blur together, their leaves rustling and snapping in my ears. The scent of pine and damp earth fills my nostrils, and I can feel my heart pounding in my chest as I reach Eddy. I glance down, his eyes are fixed on me with a hungry intensity.

I dive towards Grizzly, my claws scrabbling against his fur, I can feel my heart racing with excitement. The wind whips through my feathers, sending shivers down my spine, and I revel in the thrill of the game. Grizzly tries to swat me away, but I'm too quick, too agile, and we tumble and fall through the drifts of snow in a flurry of fur and feathers.

The cold air stings my eyes, but I don't care – I'm having the time of my life. We playfight and spin through the snow, our growls and squawks echoing off the trees as we chase each other through the forest. Time loses all meaning as we tumble and fall, our bodies a blur of motion as we lose ourselves in the joy of play.

Finally, we come to rest on the frozen pond at the edge of the property, Grizzly's massive body sprawling across the ice like a living statue. I perch on his shoulder, feeling his warmth seep into my feathers as I gaze out at the winter wonderland before us. The sun begins to set, casting a golden glow over the snow-covered trees, and I feel a sense of contentment wash over me.

Sitting on his shoulder, I can feel the thrum of his presence like a live wire humming through my veins. It's exhilarating, this sense of being on the cusp of something new, something that will change everything. I'm already falling in love with him, but it's not just a romantic feeling – it's a primal connection that goes deeper than words.

When we're together, I feel like I'm plugged into a source of pure energy, like a spark that crackles and hums through my entire being. It's intoxicating, this feeling of being on the verge of something momentous. I know that when we finally bond, our connection will be like a powerful force that binds us together, unbreakable and unshakeable.

I gaze at Eddy's profile, his eyes shine with a quiet intensity, I feel my heart skip a beat. I'm not just excited for the future – I'm already living for it, every moment I spend with him a countdown to the moment when we'll become one, united in body and mind

The sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm orange glow over the frozen pond, I start to feel a creeping chill in my raven bones. My feathers begin to ruffle and my eyes grow heavy, but I'm too cold to do anything but shiver. Eddy notices my distress and stands up, his fur fluffing out as he scoops me up in his massive paws, cradling me close to his chest like a precious egg.

The warmth of his body envelops me, and I let my eyes drift shut as the gentle rocking motion of his steps lulls me into a drowsy sleep. The sound of his breathing is a soothing hum in my ears, and I feel safe and protected in his arms as we walk back home. I'm grateful for this little moment of tenderness, this small glimpse into the warmth and comfort that only Eddy can provide.

I slowly come back to consciousness, I'm enveloped in a warm, fluffy blanket that feels like a cloud against my skin and I realise that I’m back in my human form. The softness is so luxurious that I let out a contented sigh as I sink deeper into the plush cushions of the sofa. Eddy sits beside me, his eyes shining with a gentle warmth as he notices I'm awake.

"Hi, darling," he says, his voice a low whisper, sending a shiver down my spine. "I didn't want to wake you. Are you hungry?" His concern is palpable, and I feel a surge of gratitude towards him for being so considerate. I nod, still feeling a bit disoriented from my nap, and he smiles as he gets up to fetch us something to eat.

I can't help but sneak glances at him, my eyes lingering on the way his joggers cling to his powerful thighs and rounded ass. I miss the uninterrupted view of his naked body, but there's something about the way his clothes accentuate his physique that makes me feel a flutter in my chest.

I'm drawn to the way the fabric of his jumper hugs his broad shoulders, and the way his pants stretch across his substantial hips. It's a visual feast that leaves me wanting more, and I find myself absently tracing the contours of his body with my gaze as he disappears into the kitchen.

Eddy returns and I'm enveloped by the savoury aroma of freshly cooked soup, my stomach growls in anticipation. He sets a steaming bowl down in front of me. I watch as the steam rises from the surface, carrying the scent of tender vegetables and rich broth. The crusty rolls beside it seem to beckon me, their golden crust glistening with a delicate sheen .

"Here you go, be careful it's fresh out of the pot," Eddy says, his voice warm and gentle. He places a soft pillow on my lap then hands me the bowl, his fingers brush against mine in a gentle touch that sends a flutter of affection through me.

I sit up a little straighter, feeling grateful for the small but thoughtful gesture. I take my first bite of the chicken and sweetcorn soup, the flavours explode on my tongue, a perfect harmony of savoury richness and sweet delight. The tender chicken melts in my mouth, while the crunchy vegetables add a satisfying texture. I close my eyes, letting the warmth spread through me, and my stomach growls in appreciation.

"Mmm, this is incredible," I praise, my words barely audible over the sound of my happy sigh. His eyes light up with pleasure, and he gives me a shy smile as he slurps his own soup.

When we’ve finished our meal and the dishes have been cleared away, I glance out the window to find the sky has darkened, the stars twinkling like diamonds against the velvety blackness. I'm surprised to realise that I've slept for so long, my body feels heavier than usual, my limbs aching with a deep fatigue. The memory of our time in the woods comes flooding back, and I feel a pang of weariness wash over me.

I'm starting to wonder if I'm overstepping. Eddy said I'm welcome to stay, but I'm not sure if he meant indefinitely. I look out the window, my eyes drifting over the dark landscape, before turning back to Eddy. He’s sitting on the sofa, his eyes fixed on the television.

My gut twists with anxiety as I think about what might happen if I ask to stay again. What if he says no? What if he says yes just to be polite? I try to push the thoughts away, but they linger like a persistent hum. I take a deep breath, trying to calm my racing thoughts, and remind myself that he’s always been kind to me.

As I look at him again, I notice that he's still sitting there, his expression relaxed and calm, his body language seems to say that he's open to whatever I want to do. My heart skips a beat as I realise that maybe, just maybe, he's okay with me staying after all.

When I let out a fifth yawn in as many minutes, I feel my eyelids grow heavier, my mind going foggy. Eddy's sudden movement catches my attention, and I watch as he clicks the TV off and turns to me with a gentle smile. "Ready to head to bed, darling?" he asks, his voice soothing.

My shoulders relax, I feel a weight lift off my chest as I exhale a breath, I didn't realise I was holding. My thoughts scramble to process why I'm so relieved – is it because I'm tired, or because I've been feeling anxious about spending the night again? I look at Eddy, searching for any sign of hesitation or discomfort, but his eyes remain calm and reassuring.

"I would love that," I say, trying to sound casual despite the flutter in my chest. "But are you sure you're okay with me sleeping over again? I don't want to intrude on your alone time."

Eddy's eyebrows furrow, his forehead creasing into a gentle frown. His eyes, a deep shade of brown that always seem to hold a hint of warmth, lock onto mine as he says, "Sorry, I just assumed you'd be sleeping here." The curve of his nose and the shape of his lips, slightly pink and inviting, seem to soften his words.

As he looks at me, a grin spreads across his face, revealing a slight dimple on his left cheek. The warmth in his eyes seems to grow, and I feel my own heart rate quicken in response. I let out a soft sigh, my body relaxing into the cushions as I nod. "Then it's settled," I say, my voice barely above a whisper. “Take me to bed, alpha.”

Eddy stands up, his muscles flexing beneath his skin, a low rumble of a groan emanates from his chest. He lifts me off the sofa with ease, my stomach lurching as I find myself suddenly airborne. I try to wrap my arms around my naked body. Before I can cover myself, his strong hand closes around my wrist, pulling my arm away from my chest. I try to squirm free, but he just chuckles, his breath warm against the back of my neck as he sinks his teeth into the soft flesh.

He drapes me over his shoulder and I tense up, my heart racing with a mix of excitement and discomfort. Usually, I'd be outraged by this level of manhandling, but something about Eddy's gentle touch and the way he's cradling my legs against his chest makes me feel like I'm in good hands. Plus, the view of his firm ass as we move towards the bedroom is definitely worth a little discomfort

Eddy takes me into his bedroom and I notice the soft glow of the lamp on his nightstand, casting a warm light over the room. The air is thick with the scent of us, and I can't help but feel a flutter in my gut as he quickens his pace towards the bed. He gently tosses me onto the mattress, I feel a soft give as I sink into the plush fabric.

Eddy looms over me, his cheeks flushed with a gentle pink as he gazes down at me with a soft, adoring expression. His eyes seem to hold a deep warmth, and I feel my heart skip a beat as he smiles down at me. His large frame seems to fill the room, and I'm struck by the sheer power and vulnerability that radiates from him.

I love seeing my alpha like this. There's something about this gentle giant that makes me feel safe and cherished.

I push my legs apart, letting Eddy's gaze wash over me as I lay naked before him. My skin glistens with a fine sheen of sweat, and my cock starts to twitch with anticipation. Eddy's eyes dart between my face and my groin, his pupils dilating as he takes in the sight of my leaking cock and slickening hole.

But he doesn't move, just continues to stare at me like a statue. I can feel his gaze like a physical touch, making my skin prickle with awareness. I try to break the silence, clicking my fingers impatiently. "Take those off," I demand, my voice husky with desire.

Eddy's expression remains frozen, but I can see the tension building in his body. His chest rises and falls with each breath, and his eyes never leave mine. I feel a thrill of excitement as I realise that he's not going to move until he's good and ready.

Since spotting him through the bakery window, I’ve known that Eddy was the one I wanted by my side. There was something about his rugged, dependable presence that made me feel grounded and secure. But I was also aware that our relationship would require some...fine-tuning. I wasn't looking for someone to compromise or negotiate with me; I needed someone who could accept my strong will and flaws.

As I look at Eddy, I can sense his restrain, his hesitation to fully surrender to our desires. But I’m not intimidated by his reserve; I’m drawn to it. I see the potential for a deep, intense connection between us, one that will require trust, communication, and a willingness to listen to each other.

His clothes hit the floor, my gaze drops, my eyes lingering on the tantalising sight of his naked form. He takes a step forward, our eyes locking, but I shake my head, a small smile playing on my lips. "Not yet, alpha," I whisper, my voice husky with anticipation.

I rise up onto my knees, my legs spread wide, and pat the bed next to me. "Come here," I murmur, my fingers beckoning him closer. Eddy's eyes never leave mine as he takes a step forward, his chest rising and falling with each breath. He's hesitant, but I can sense the desire building inside him.

"Come on, alpha," I coax, my voice soft and persuasive. "Let's get comfortable." I gesture again to the space next to me, and this time, his eyes flicker downward. His face darkens with desire, and he takes another step forward.

Eddy's eyes flick to mine, his brow arching in a mixture of amusement and curiosity, and when he finally lays on the bed, I claim his mouth with mine. His lips part in response, and our tongues meet in a slow, sultry dance. My groan is low and primal, as if I'm releasing all the pent-up desire that's been building between us. The taste of him explodes on my tongue, like a firework of flavour and sensation that leaves me breathless.

I don't know how many times I've told myself that I'll get used to the way his scent makes me feel, like warm cookies on a chilly day. But every time I'm pressed against him, his scent wraps around me like a warm hug, and I'm reminded that I'll never get tired of it. The same goes for the way he looks at me, with a gaze that's equal parts adoration and desire. It's like he's trying to see into my very soul, and I'm helpless against the pull of his eyes.

Suddenly, I'm aware of a subtle change in his touch - his pace quickens, and his breathing grows more urgent. I pull away from the kiss, my heart racing with anticipation.

"Close your eyes for me," I whisper, my voice husky with desire. I guide his hands to my hips, feeling the gentle pressure of his fingers as he wraps them around my waist. I wrap my own fingers around his cock, our eyes locking in a moment of mutual understanding. We're both lost in the sensations, our hearts pounding in unison.

I lean in, my lips brush against the soft skin of his neck, sending a shiver through his body. His eyes snap shut, and I can feel his tension ease as I begin to worship his body. I press my lips to his tender flesh, feeling the warmth of his body beneath me.

My tongue darts out to taste the soft curls of his chest hair, and he responds with a soft growl of protest in his throat. It's a gentle reminder that he's still fully present, still fully invested in this moment. I continue to explore his body, he tries to interrupt me, his voice husky with desire. "I'm supposed to be taking care of you," he says, his words laced with mock frustration.

I sink my teeth into his nipple, and he lets out a soft gasp as I gently nip at the tender flesh. I gaze down at his chest, taking in the way his nipple puckers under my gentle bite, and the muscles in his chest flex as he arches his back. As I release his nipple, I can't help but smile up at him, feeling a sense of contentment wash over me .

"Says who?" my voice husky with amusement. "Because as mates I'm pretty sure we're supposed to take care of each other." He pauses at my words. "I'm not exactly keeping track of who's getting off first, Grizzly. All I know is that I'm having fun, and I'm not going to let you stop me."

Eddy's eye flickers open, his gaze locking onto mine with a hint of uncertainty. His voice is laced with vulnerability as he asks, “Are you sure?”

I lick a strip down his chest, feeling the warmth of his skin beneath my tongue. I nuzzle my face against the soft, dark curls that cover his groin, the sweet scent of his skin wafting up to greet me. I breathe in deeply, feeling a sense of connection to him, like we're sharing a secret moment that no one else can understand.

"More than," I whisper, my voice flooded with desire. "So just relax and let me make you feel good." I begin to explore the contours of his body with my tongue, tracing the swell of his soft stomach and the gentle curve of his hip bone. My touch is gentle at first, but as he begins to relax with my touch, I can feel myself growing more confident, more demanding.

I wrap my hand around the thick length of his cock, my fingers closing gently around the shaft, Eddy's eyes flutter shut and his head falls back against the pillows. I begin to stroke him, my palm moving up and down in slow, gentle circles. As I do, I can almost feel the pleasure building in his body, his breath quickening as he begins to relax into my touch. The softness of his skin is a contrast to the roughness of his pubic hair, and I can smell the musky scent of his arousal.

Precum begins to form at the tip of his cock, I sneak my tongue out for a little taste. The flavour explodes on my tongue, rich and masculine, and I'm immediately hooked. I try to suck out as much of the goodness as I can, my tongue wrapping around the head of his cock .

I hear Eddy's voice, his words echoing in my mind, "S-Slow down, Darcy. I don't want this to be over yet," my mind doesn't register the meaning. I'm consumed by a single-minded desire: I crave the salty sweetness of his release, my taste buds tingling with anticipation as I wait for him to succumb to my ministrations. The tension building in his body is almost palpable, his breath quickening as he struggles to hold back, but I can see the struggle written all over his face.

Driven by a primal urge to claim him as my own, to make him mine in a way that goes beyond mere pleasure, I do the one thing that I think will push him over the edge. I wrap my tongue around the base of his cock, pulling gently but firmly, and then slide it up and over the head, feeling the precum glistening on the tip like a tiny drop of liquid gold waiting to be devoured.

I'm aware that Eddy's still trying to slow down, to savour every moment, but my own desires are in overdrive. I'm determined to make him come, to feel his release flooding my mouth and my senses. I continue to tease him with my tongue, I can feel the tension building inside him, his body straining towards release.

As I beg, my voice trembling with need, I see the alpha in his eyes come to the surface, his pupils dilating with primal desire. "Alpha please, please give me your come," I end the plea with a high-pitched whine, one that's unfamiliar to my own ears. The alpha in Eddy has taken over, his hips lifting off the bed as he unleashes a torrent of salty release.

The tangy sweetness of his semen explodes in my mouth, a rich, velvety liquid that coats my tongue and the roof of my mouth. I struggle to swallow it down, the warm, sticky liquid seeping into my skin, leaving a trail of sensation as I try to contain it. Most of it ends up spraying on my face and down my neck, but I don't care - I'd bathe in it if I could .

As I lie there, his seed dripping from my chin and onto the bed sheets, I feel a sense of primal satisfaction wash over me. It's not just about the pleasure - it's about the connection between us, the bond that's grown stronger with each passing moment.

When his orgasm finally subsides, the sweet, earthy aroma of his semen hangs in the air, making my head spin and my senses reel. I feel my body relax, my limbs heavy and limp as I sink into the pleasure-pit that is his lovemaking. But before I can even catch my breath, Eddy's hands are on me again, grasping my hips and dragging me towards him.

I find myself perched on his face, his tongue darting in and out of my hole like a warm, slippery probe. The sensation is both intense and overwhelming, sending shivers down my spine as I try to process the sheer intimacy of the moment. I can feel the gentle pressure of his lips against my skin, the soft suckling of his mouth as he tries to coax me into submission. It's a primal sensation, one that speaks to something deep and ancient within me.

I’m suspended above him like a helpless supplicant, a sense of complete surrender washing over me. I'm no longer just an omega - I'm a vessel for his desires, a conduit for his pleasure and satisfaction. And as I gaze down at Eddy's rapt face, I know that this is what it means to be an omega - to be consumed by your alpha's passion and to find pleasure in being devoured

My body is a tightly wound spring, my abdomen tightening as Eddy's iron-grip on my hips sends me hurtling towards release. I'm so close, I can feel it building in my core, a slow-burning fire that threatens to consume me whole.

He rocks my body against his lips. I can feel the warm, gentle pressure of his mouth against my skin, the soft lapping of his tongue as he tries to force an orgasm out of me. The tingles start at the base of my spine, a gentle flutter that grows in intensity as he continues to tease me. It's a delicious sensation, one that's both pleasurable and painful, and I'm powerless to stop it.

I'm just one small push away from the blissful edge, and I can feel myself trembling with anticipation. His grip on my hips tightens, and I know that he's not going to let me go until he's gotten everything he wants from me.

I lick my lips, the sweet, earthy tang of his semen still lingering on my tongue, a reminder of the intense pleasure we've shared. I scrape off the remnants of his mess from my neck and chest, before bringing my fingers to my mouth.

The tanginess is potent. As I push my finger into my mouth, I feel the familiar sensation of my own orgasm cresting. It's a slow-burning fire that spreads throughout my body, leaving me trembling and helpless.

I succumb to the waves of pleasure, my body trembling against his mouth, and I feel myself melting into his hold. Eddy's tongue is still moving against me, gentle and probing, and I'm lost in the sensation of being consumed by him.

I manage to roll away from his mouth and collapse in the space next to him, my chest heaving with exertion. When I look over at him, I'm struck by the sight of his face, wet and glistening with my slick. His ginger and grey beard is matted with it, the strands clinging to his skin like tiny fingers.

His features seem chiselled and intense, the lines of his beard accentuating his rugged masculinity. The way he looks at me, his eyes burning with a primal intensity, sends shivers down my spine. I can feel my heart pounding in my chest, my body still humming with pleasure from our encounter.

I'm struck by the raw power of his presence, the way he seems to radiate an aura of dominance and control. It's a potent combination, and I feel myself melting into his gaze, drawn like a magnet to the primal energy that surrounds him .

When my eyelids begin to droop, I fight to keep them open, my gaze drifting back to Eddy's face. His warm, damp skin meets my palm, sending shivers up my arm. The touch is like a spark plug, igniting a chain reaction of sensation that courses through my entire body.

My arm tingles, as if his touch has awakened a thousand tiny fireflies that dance along my skin. I don't hear what he says next, the words lost in the haze of pleasure that's enveloped me. I'm floating away, drifting on a sea of sensations, my senses overwhelmed by the raw power of his touch.