Chapter 71. The Moment We Share

Astrid

I lay there, my breath still ragged, my heart pounding in my chest. My body ached in the most satisfying way. Magnus’s arms were wrapped around me.

I turned my head slightly to look at him. He was watching me, his deep blue eyes soft, filled with a tenderness that made my heart swell. I reached up, tracing the strong line of his jaw with my fingertips, committing every detail to memory—the way his stubble tickled my skin, the slight curve of his lips as he smiled down at me. I wanted to hold on to this moment forever.

"Are you happy?" he whispered, his voice low and husky, sending a shiver down my spine.

"I am," I replied, my voice barely more than a breath. "I’ve never felt more... complete."

Magnus’s smile widened, and he leaned down, capturing my mouth with his. The kiss was slow, deliberate, his lips moving against mine with a softness that contrasted the fierce passion we had just shared. My fingers tangled in his hair, pull