Chapter 44: Chapter 44: Marking

Ripley's POV

The sun laid a soft blanket of warmth across her as morning broke.

Ripley stirred in the sheets, thankful to greet another day.

Jake was already awake, watching her as she broke from the hold of sleep.

There was a soft smile on his face and something hungry in his eyes.

Ripley had taken to sleeping in Jake's t shirts every night. Something about being enveloped in the smell of him, even as she laid by his side, brought her infinite comfort.

He ran a finger down her ribs, under the soft cotton shirt.

Goosebumps ran down her arms, his touch like electricity.

"Good morning," he greeted, voice hoarse and gravelly with sleep.

"Good morning," she said back.

Ripley threw one leg over him, pulling him closer.

Jake grabbed at her hip, locking her in place. With his other hand, he pulled her face to his, kissing her deeply.

Something thrummed inside her chest, like harp strings or running water.