Thad was wrapped up, wrapped in, warped around, Veti. Every part of him that could touch her did. Even parts that could not were surround by the feel of Veti. All his time dead and still or clinging in the world of death evaporated in the sparks of life, of love. Thad cherished each moment, each touch, each scent, each sight, each move of Veti. He told her so. 

First with a body that she didn’t know, his. And although every time with Max ,Thad was there, watching and learning, this was him. For a minute Thad feared he better be at his best because this might be his one and only time with a woman he knew would never fade from his longing. But she said she loved him too. At this moment he believed her. And if she loved him now why not more than now. Why not.

Next he told her with his words, as they tumbled out, “I knew,” he buried his head into her, “I knew when I saw you. Right then.” He laughed and let his chuckles move his lips over her. “I just never thought you would see me. So there was Max.” He lifted his head and looked into her eyes. “He loves you too you know. And he taught me more than I should admit.” He kissed her again never trying of the feel. “But his time is up and I want you. All of you. Forever.”

He told her with his eyes that looked into hers to see the wild side she could not help but let run and the side that cares for her pack and her friends. She would not fade off into any sunset with him leaving Siya or Daisy or Henry or even Atticus behind. She would not leave a job undone, or partners in danger. And Thad could love that too. He told her so with his smile. 

With arms around her he pulled her sweat covered sex soaked head against his chest . He wanted her to feel safe and happy. Not sure about how he would keep her safe he laughed and realized the happy part would have to do. Maybe he could make her happy. And that meant being beside her on her wild rides, her protective rants, her inquisitive hunts, and her pride in her job. He could do that. He would make sure not to fall into a routine of just picking the safe dull easy risk free way. No, this was Veti, after all. 

Sure that he would never fall asleep again Thad was surprised after repeated warpings around Veti he could feel his eyes get heavy. But to fight off the idea of laying still again Thad jumped from the bed and ran to the window to open the thick dark curtains. 

Naked he bounced back to the bed. “I think I am starving!” He held his stomach and fell on top of her. “I don't think I have eaten in a year!” He crawled up onto her and put his face close to hers. “I would run out right now and grab whatever food I am sure is nicely spread on those old exquisite tables. Do you think they would notice?” He let his eyes show his dare that he so casually threw. The Max in him rumbled in approval. 

Thad sprang from the bed and ran to the door placing his hand on the handle waiting for Veti to say go or stay.