She didn’t know whether it was more appropriate to be elated or terrified. “Gabe—” “I love you.” She felt his fangs pressed against her skin, and a violent shudder shook her insides. “I’ve waited too long,” he whispered. “And I’ve been so stupid. No Order keeps me away from the woman I love.” “But—” Gabriel pulled away just slightly, his gaze finding hers again. “Do you love me?” “What?” “Tell me.” Was he seriously asking her this? “Yes.” She tightened her arms around him as the wealth of her feelings threatened to erupt completely. “I love you. I never stopped.” “Me neither. And I’m gonna take you now.” “But Gabe—” “No buts. We’ll cross those bridges when we get to them, right? Now I just need you. Please, baby.” He pressed his brow to hers. “I can’t take it anymore. Being without you, living to see the holidays, just to pretend that… I can’t do it. I won’t do it anymore. There’s nothing worse than this. I’d rather be mated and die tomorrow than go on like this.”
