Hours later I awoke naturally, sprawled out on my stomach, both arms under my pillow snuggling it toward me. I felt a thousand times better, refreshed, as I turned myself over, stretching my arms above my head, letting my body elongate right down to pointed toes. Nothing better than a good stretch.

Small particles of light streamed around the room, so when I rolled across to my side I was blindsided by a massive expanse of bare chest.

I froze.

My eyes darted left and right as I tried to figure out what to do. I could see – and scent – that there were no Compasses left in the room except Braxton. We had needed sleep the most; the other boys would have bailed earlier and left us to our rest. My body softened as I studied the face across from me. It was only in sleep that Braxton seemed relaxed, young even. When he was awake it was easy to forget he was only twenty-two, he carried so much strength and domination. The power he wielded was the same as that of the elders.

I scooted a little closer. I couldn’t help myself. I was drawn to him and I was starting to see that this was not going away – the need was increasing.

And I didn’t want to fight it any longer.

I continued to watch him. There wasn’t the slightest sign that he was awake, no change in breathing or even flicker of an eye – when suddenly his lids flew open and piercing blue eyes pinned me to place. I held my breath. No doubt, Braxton and I had reached the point where we had to deal with this thing between us. I felt as if I was going to self-destruct if I didn’t touch him. If he didn’t touch me. If we didn’t … damn, I’m in trouble.

We were silent for many long moments, the flow of energy between us so strong it was almost visible. Braxton reached out a long arm then and cupped his hand around the back of my head. My breath caught in my throat. His other hand scooted behind my ass, and then, with exquisite care – and an anticipation which almost had me moaning – he dragged me closer. So slowly did he close the distance between our bodies.

The few times I allowed myself to dream about being with Braxton, I’d imagined it hard and fast, passions overwhelming us as we lost control. So far it was the opposite: tender and gentle. I wasn’t sure if he was savoring our moment or if he was giving me the chance to stop him. But if that’s what he was waiting for, he was going to be very disappointed.