The Professor's Second Chance Mate

Chapter 15a

***Kelton***

As our kiss ended, I couldn’t help but feel a rush of warmth in my heart at the sight of the blush on Lara’s cheeks and the smile on her face. Knight urged me to tell her how much we loved her, but I knew it was too soon. I didn’t want to scare her off. However, the truth was undeniable - we were both hopelessly in love with her. It took every ounce of my self-control to remain calm and confident around her, when deep down I was petrified she’d bolt.

My stomach rumbled, reminding me that the cereal we ate earlier wasn’t enough to satisfy two ravenously hungry and horny wolves.

“While I could live off your scent alone, I think it’s time I feed you, my darling.” I rubbed her hips lightly .

“What do I smell like?” she asked, furrowing her brow in confusion or perhaps skepticism.

“Hmm,” I hummed. I inhaled deeply, savoring the sweet and fruity fragrance that radiated from her skin. As I leaned in, I felt her shudder, likely feeling the vibrations in my chest and my breath on her neck. I could tell she was getting aroused.

“Island fruit and vanilla,” I replied. “Like guava, papaya, mandarin, and vanilla bean. What do I smell like?”

“Warm spring and sunshine.” She answered immediately.

I raised an eyebrow, waiting for her to elaborate. “That’s a concept more than a scent,” I teased.

“I know it makes no sense, but that’s what I picture. Spring and sunshine. Warmth and comfort. The promise of new beginnings. It’s earthy, a little spicy.”

Once again, my heart burned with affection for her. I wanted nothing more than to claim her right then and there, but I reminded myself we needed to take it slow and earn her trust.

Do it, Knight egged me on.

She needs to find her confidence, I answered my wolf. I knew though, that he, like me, would be as patient as she needed us to be.

“I like that. New beginnings. That’s what you are for me too,” I said before she leaned in to kiss me again.

“I need to feed you, my darling,” I said, when we broke apart once again.

She nodded and climbed off my lap. I closed my eyes in effort, holding in my groan as she did so. Her movement unwittingly rubbed my already aching, hard need for her. I watched enthralled for a second as I gained control of myself, while she scanned her tiny kitchenette, obviously looking for some kind of meal she could throw together.

“I have a better idea. How about we grab sandwiches then go for a run?”

She swung around and locked green eyes on mine. No, not green. It is impossible to describe her eye color. They were a kaleidoscope of green, gold, amber, and bronze flecks. I could swear they changed with her mood or maybe it was just the way the light hit her sometimes. Then, when she bit her lip like she had something to say but didn’t know how, I had to swallow another groan. I couldn’t help but watch her with fascination for another few seconds before speaking. The idea definitely interested her.

“You’re worried about being seen,” I guessed.

She nodded hesitantly. “It’s not that I don’t want the world to know... it’s just that, well, no one can know. I mean... you’re my teacher.”

Goddess, I loved it when she got all nervous like that. f*****g adorable.

Imagine how much more we’ll love it when she finds her confidence, Knight commented. She already has you whipped and she doesn’t even know it yet. I could sense his wolfish grin. He was absolutely looking forward to that as much as I was.

Everything about her was perfect.

I reassured her with a plan. “Here’s what we’re going to do. You will meet me at the gate we met at yesterday. Bring a change of clothes and a water bottle. I’ll get food. Have a piece of fruit to tide you over though. You’ll need the energy for the walk.” Her pupils dilated and a silent sigh escaped her before she lightly bit her lower lip. She liked it when I took charge: it turned her on. I filed that little fact away. “See you in forty-five minutes.” I stepped forward and kissed her softly on the cheek. “Don’t be late, gorgeous, or I’ll have to punish you.” I added playfully.

When the word, punish, popped out of my mouth, I instantly rejected it. I knew she had a tough past in her home pack, and I never wanted her to feel unsafe with me. I quickly corrected myself, “I’m sorry. I didn’t mean it like that. I would never hurt you.”

She gave me a soft peck on the cheek, reassuring me that she understood. And with that, and the resulting grin, I left her eager to get prepped for our adventure, eager to spend more time together and explore the depths of our affection for each other.

After preparing a picnic basket with several sandwiches and snacks, I loaded it into my car’s trunk. As I was doing so, a student approached me.

“Hey, Professor Gileson.”

Despite my efforts, I couldn’t recall her name. I’d not had time to learn everyone yet. She was an attractive young woman, and it was clear that she was trying to flirt with me.

Knight growled softly in my head.

Despite my polite rejections, she persisted and even tried to invite me to her apartment. The girl would not take no for an answer.

“Chloe,” she’d told me her name during our conversation, “You are a very attractive young woman and your persistence is admirable. You actually make a great businesswoman. However, as I have explained, I’m not available. I am in a committed relationship.”

“But you’re not. I did my research,” she interrupted.

“It’s new but quite serious. I’m flattered really, but please understand, I can be your professor, a business contact, mentor, a friend, whichever, but our acquaintance will be professional. I will never be your lover. ”

Disappointment and confusion marred her face. I got the impression the woman did not hear, no very often. I almost wanted to hire her. Not because of the flirting, but her determination alone would make her a formidable negotiator.

Surprisingly, Chloe wasn’t offended. She accepted my answer gracefully - finally. “Well, whoever she is, she’s lucky. You’re loyal. I like that. I’m sorry for…”

“Forgiven. I’ll see you in class tomorrow.” I smiled to let her know I don’t hold grudges.