35. Malia
THIRTY-FIVE
Malia
As I step off the plane, the warm California sun envelops me, a welcome respite from the weeks of darkness and despair. Walt’s hand wraps around mine, a reassuring grip as we make our way through the small group of scientists, their families, and the Guardian teams: Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, and Delta. The sound of muted chatter and the occasional cry of relief fills the air.
Skye Summers greets us with a warm smile. “Welcome back. We need to get you and the others processed through medical. Just a precaution, but we want to ensure everyone is healthy and safe.”
I nod, still trying to process the events of the past few weeks. Walt’s hand tightens around mine, a gentle reminder that I’m not alone.
As we wait in line, I catch glimpses of the other hostages, haggard but relieved. My brother, Malikai, gives me a nod of acknowledgment before turning to the medical team. I watch as they examine him, my heart still racing with anxiety.
The medical examination is quick and efficient. I’m pronounced healthy, if a bit exhausted. Walt stays by my side, his eyes never leaving mine as we wait.
Finally, we’re cleared to leave. Walt leads me away from the plane toward a sleek, black SUV parked away from the chaos. His expression softens, and he turns to me, leaning down, his voice low and gentle.
“Do you want to stay with your brother?” he asks, his eyes searching mine. “I understand if you do, but…”
His words are laced with meaning, and I can’t help but think about the lingering tension between us, the desire that’s been building since we first met. I know what he’s offering—and I know exactly what I want.
“I want to stay with you.” My voice is steady and sure.
“My place it is then.” A slow smile spreads across his face, and he nods, opening the door for me.
I slide into the SUV and can’t help but feel a thrill of anticipation. Tonight is the night, and I can’t wait.
As we drive away from Guardian HQ, the SUV winds up a narrow road, the sound of the waves growing louder. Finally, we arrive at a cozy cottage perched over the California cliffs, the rugged beach below a stunning backdrop.
Walt opens the door, gesturing for me to enter. The interior is warm and inviting, the scent of wood and sea salt filling my senses.
I wander through the living room, taking in the eclectic decor. Walt watches me, his eyes burning with intensity.
“Want a drink?” he asks, his voice low and husky, but he doesn’t wait for a response.
I shake my head, my heart racing with anticipation. We both know why we’re here, and it’s not for small talk or drinks.
Walt’s eyes narrow, his jaw flexing as he steps closer. Tension vibrates through his body, the coiled power waiting to be unleashed. His gaze is intense and hungry, and there’s no mistaking his intent. He reaches out, his fingers closing around my wrist, pulling me firmly against his chest.
His eyes narrow, his jaw flexing. “You sure about what you said on the plane? No taking things slow?”
I nod, my heart racing with anticipation. “I’m sure.”
His mouth claims mine in a fierce, dominant kiss, his tongue delving deep, taking what he wants, what he’s been craving. His hands grip my hips, holding me tightly against him, his body hard and insistent against mine.
He breaks the kiss, his breath coming in ragged pants, his eyes flashing with desire.
“Tonight, I make you mine,” he says, his voice a low, primal growl.
I melt into him, my body responding to the growl in his voice, the power in his touch. This is what I’ve been craving, what I need. My legs weaken, and in an instant, I’m swept off my feet.
Walt lifts me, his strong arms cradling me securely as he strides toward the bedroom. His grip is firm, his intention clear.
I gasp softly, my arms instinctively wrapping around his neck, my body pressing against his. My heart races with anticipation, and my breath comes in quick, shallow breaths. Walt’s stride is determined. His eyes never leave mine, and his gaze is filled with primal, possessive hunger.
He carries me through the doorway, his body hard against mine, sending shivers down my spine. His strength is palpable, his dominance undeniable. And I am more than ready to be claimed, to be taken, to be made his completely.
As we pass the threshold, Walt’s dominance unfurls like a dark, velvet cloak. He sets me down, his hands still grasping my arms, holding me in place. His eyes burn into mine, his voice low and commanding.
“Undress for me,” he orders, his words sending shivers down my spine.
I hesitate for a moment, my heart pounding in my chest.
“Now, Malia.” His grip on my arms tightens, his fingers digging into my skin. I swallow hard, my hands rising to the buttons of my shirt. I undo them, one by one, my fingers trembling slightly.
Walt’s gaze is intense as I reveal my skin inch by inch. His power and control envelop me like a vise. My breath hitches, and my body responds to his dominance and sheer presence. Yet, I feel safe and protected with Walt.
When I reach the last button, Walt’s hands close around my wrists, pulling my arms down.
“Stop,” he says, his voice rough. “I want to admire you for a moment.”
I stand before him, my heart racing, as Walt’s eyes roam over my body. His gaze is like a physical touch, making my skin prickle with goosebumps.
Then, without warning, Walt’s mouth crashes down on mine, his kiss brutal and possessive. His hands grasp my face, holding me in place as he devours me. It’s not a kiss; it’s a claiming.
As we kiss, his hands roam, pulling me close, holding me tight. His fingers dig into my hips and my waist as if he can’t get enough of me.
Suddenly, Walt breaks away, his chest heaving with exertion. He tears at his clothes, ripping his shirt off and revealing his chiseled chest. His hands are rough and urgent as he undoes his belt and steps out of his pants.
I watch, mesmerized, as Walt reveals himself to me. His eyes are wild, feral, as he stands before me, naked and unashamed.
For a moment, we stand there, our chests heaving, our eyes locked in a fierce, primal stare. Then, Walt’s hands close around my waist, pulling me into his chest, and I know I’m in for the ride of my life.