His fingers twitched on my sides, and he jerked his gaze from my breasts to look up at me, his pupils narrowing to slits.
“I’ve dreamed of having a family of my own since I was little. I want babies, Azio. Lots of them. I know how dangerous that would be in this world with a human man. But today proved it might not be so dangerous with a fey. I mean, look at you. You were bitten and fine. I want to know my kids would be fine too.”
He nodded slowly.
“You won’t always fear us. When you are ready, you can choose. No single fey would refuse you.”
“I think I already know who I want to ask. But I’m worried about hurting someone else’s feelings by choosing.”
“Yes, many will be disappointed. But not sad. We will celebrate our brother’s fortune.”
“So Groth won’t be mad at me when I choose you?”
Azio stood suddenly, lifting me with him and wrapping me in a hug. The hand on the back of my head steered me to his unbitten shoulder as he pressed me close.
“You please me more than you know, Terri. I will keep you safe and fed and warm. You will want for nothing. I swear to you.”
His exuberance had the opposite effect on me. I started shaking.
He quickly released me and resumed his seat, eyes down on the hands he braced on his knees.
“Forgive me. I didn’t mean to scare you.”
“I know. It’s okay. I just need a little more time.”
“As much time as you need.”
I’d waited so long already and didn’t plan to stall more than necessary. My period was due any day. Once that started, the countdown would begin.