Chapter 38

Alexei shuddered above her as his own release tore through him. His fingers dug into her hips with bruising intensity. He collapsed against her back, their sweat-slicked bodies pressed together, both of them trembling in the aftermath. For several moments, they remained frozen in that position, their ragged breathing the only sound in the luxurious bedroom.

"Jesus," Keira finally gasped when she could form words again. "That was..."

"Incredible," Alexei finished, pressing a kiss to her shoulder blade. He withdrew carefully and tied off the condom, tossing it aside on the nightstand, before helping her onto the bed properly.

She curled against him, her body still humming with aftershocks. The pendant he'd given her rested cool against her flushed skin.

"Do you think anyone heard us?" she asked, suddenly remembering where they were in the royal palace, with staff and guards everywhere.

Alexei laughed, the sound vibrating through his chest under her cheek. "The w