Aiden looked at Ryker's earnest, intelligent face and realized this was the best, safest path forward.
"I'll listen to you then," Aiden confirmed, giving a firm nod. He was giving his consent, not just to the plan, but to their new reality as mates.
Ryker's face lit up instantly. A wave of pure, unadulterated happiness washed over him.
He leaned down and pressed a soft, warm kiss directly onto the top of Aiden's head, a simple, tender gesture of approval and affection. Aiden's heart soared, and all he could do in return was smile blissfully, basking in the sudden warmth of their commitment.
After that moment of sweet intimacy, Ryker continued to hold Aiden's gaze, the smile slowly fading from his lips. He simply looked at Aiden, a deep, searching intensity in his eyes. The casual air in the small room evaporated, replaced by a tangible, thickening tension. Aiden felt his nerves sharpen, his entire body becoming hyperaware of the proximity of his mate.
