Chapter 21 "Give Up Forever To Touch You"

Disclaimer: WH & NKR. Not SM. We like our wolves dirty. Yum.

A/N: Still with us? Good! We won't keep you waiting with a silly warning about not reading at the office. You should just assume it at this point! Enjoy!

And I'd give up forever to touch you
'Cause I know that you feel me somehow
You're the closest to heaven that I'll ever be
And I don't want to go home right now

And all I can taste is this moment
And all I can breathe is your life
'Cause sooner or later it's over
I just don't want to miss you tonight

And I don't want the world to see me
'Cause I don't think that they'd understand
When everything's made to be broken
I just want you to know who I am

"Iris" - Goo Goo Dolls

LPOV

Embry is leaning over me, his beautiful smile lighting up his entire face. My Wolf Charming. "You are so fucking beautiful. Ok if I kiss you?"

The things Embry can do with his tongue, the heights he just sent me to, amaze me. I can't help but giggle at the memory of him tying the cherry stem into a double knot the other night, especially considering what just happened. This was definitely not part of my plan when I suggested we play pool. I just wanted to have some fun, not quite ready to go sleep off the alcohol I've consumed tonight; we were playing and teasing but when I removed my shirt, everything changed. Embry changed.

He moved slowly, gracefully, but with a purpose. It was like the raw animal power I saw when he phased today was suddenly in him, and I was his very willing prey. Seeing the power that he so often hides from me was exhilarating. The second his hands touched me, I melted.

The alcohol helped, but I know Embry is the reason why I'm becoming more- comfortable with my body and vocal with what I want. The way he looks at me, speaks to me, talks about my body; it makes me feel beautiful, like he really is attracted to me. Hearing him call my body his 'dessert' almost made me laugh, but it also turned me on beyond belief. I want to be that sexy woman he described; I want to be able to seduce him. This game of pool was a good first step.

I nod quickly and pull Embry down to me. Wanting to thank him for this amazing moment, I run my tongue over his lips. When his tongue flicks out to meet mine, I can't help nipping at it. It's odd tasting myself on him. With Embry it doesn't feel dirty, it feels natural, but I'm still surprised he was so willing to bring this pleasure to me. I have to stop comparing him to Carter. The more I'm around Embry the more I understand he would never treat me with way Carter did.

I grin as I let go of his lips, "You are pretty fucking beautiful yourself. And talented. I never knew it could be that- fucking good."

"You need to stop hanging out with me, you are starting to curse. I thought you were innocent, Lillah," Embry is laughing as he pulls away from me.

I follow him, sitting up and pulling him back to me. I don't want to let him go, not yet.

"I'm still mostly innocent. Are you ok?" I look up at him. I'm hoping he'll let me touch him again, though I still can't directly ask him that question.

"I'll survive. Come on, you need to sober up and I need to take care of a little problem."

My heart stutters at his response and I can't help the snicker that escapes as he calls it a 'little problem'. According to the girls, and what I've managed to touch, it's definitely not little. I'm surprised when I whisper out this last part; I chalk it up to the alcohol. Embry's eyebrows shoot up at me but he doesn't comment on it. I get redressed, swaying slightly on my feet, but I'm not sure if that is from the wine, the beer, or the orgasm. Probably the orgasm. I can't even imagine what it would be like if we were to actually have sex. Amazing. Mind blowing. Ruin me for any other man's touch. No, that's already happened.

I'm so lost in my thoughts I barely realize he's walked me to the door of the shop. He kisses me sweetly before he locks up and helps me into his truck. Once he's settled I can't help but to lean against him. He wraps his arm around my shoulder and it takes everything in me not to close my eyes and fall asleep.

When he asks about my car I giggle as I respond, but I'm suddenly struck with the realization that my baby is at Rachel's house, and that Rachel was very turned on when I left. In my inebriated mind I vaguely recall the girls discussing their love of having sex in different places earlier. I glance up at Embry, "You don't think Paul and Rachel would have sex in my Camaro?"

"They'd better not." His response is surly and he growls it out, sending a shiver up my spine. I don't know why he'd get so upset about that when it's my car.

I'm so comfortable, but I don't want to fall asleep on the way to his place, so I force myself to sit up. This makes Embry frown, "Lillah, sleep. We'll be there shortly."

"Nope. If I fall asleep you'll just tuck me in like you did on Saturday," I pull the arm that is across my shoulder down a little further, resting my head on his bicep while I play with his fingers. "You don't play fair like that."

"Play fair? You have my hand dangling in between your boobs and I don't play fair?"

I lift his hand I'm playing with to my mouth, turning it over so I can place a brief kiss on his palm, "I don't hear you complaining."

Embry kisses the top of my head, but I can feel the laughter in his chest, "No complaints, just hard to focus on the road when you are near. Worse when you willingly place my hand near one of my favorite spots on your body."

"You're a boob man!" I snort out, remembering my conversation with Emily.

Embry shakes his head but doesn't say anything as he stops the truck. I move to follow him out, but before I reach the edge of the seat, Embry scoops me up into his arms, "Embry, I'm ok to walk. You should put me down."

"I don't know, you were doing a bit of swaying before. Besides, we're in now," When I look up, he's opened the door to a small duplex.

Embry turns on a light then sets me down on the couch. He kneels in front of me, our eyes at the same level. He pushes my hair behind my ears then cups my face so gently I can't stop myself from sighing, closing my eyes and enjoying the feeling of his warm hands on my cheeks. I look up when he clears his throat, there is a small smile playing across his lips, which makes me smile, "What? Is my hair that much of a mess?"

"No, you look amazing as always. I was just going to respond to your 'boob man' comment. I'm not."

I raise my eyebrows at him, "You are too."

"Nope." Embry is shaking his head, smiling before leaning forward to kiss me gently, "I'm a 'Lillah man'. I like every part of your body. Every inch of you turns me on; your hair, eyes, lips, neck, shoulders," he continues his list even when I blush and playfully shove his shoulder, "tits, hands, stomach, hips, ass, thighs. What's between those thighs," Embry wiggles his eyebrows and I can't help but giggle, "knees, calves, ankles, and feet. And every other part of you from the tips of your toes to the top of your head."

I don't know how to respond. I want to tell him that's exactly how I feel about him, but I don't. Instead, I blush and look away, but I do manage to squeak out, "Thank you."

"No. Thank you for sharing that beautiful body with me. Thank you for allowing me to have a part of you tonight," Embry leans back and smiles again, "Now, let's get some food in that stomach of yours so you don't get sick."

I lean my head back, "I'm not hungry, Embry."

"I know, Lills, but you need some carbs to absorb the alcohol. I'm guessing you didn't eat much at Rachel's based on how buzzed you are."

"I ate a little."

"Sure sweetheart," all these little pet names he's calling me are killing me. It's too precious and I want more, but I don't want to get addicted, since I know I can't have him forever like I want.

I hear him mumbling as he walks out of the living room, "I could kill Rachel for letting her get away with drinking that much and not eating."

I shake my head but don't say anything. My eyes are getting heavy so I force myself to sit up and take stock of the tiny living room.

When Embry comes back carrying a glass of water and a plate in his hands, I look up, questioning him, "Puzzles?"

Embry looks down at the coffee table, smiling as he hands me the glass and a few pills, "Drink up and take the aspirin. I don't want you upset with me in the morning for a headache," he watches me take the pills and swallow them before continuing.

"My mom and I used to do puzzles all the time. They were something cheap for us to do together. I don't know, I enjoy working on them, it clears my mind."

I move a few pieces around that don't yet have a home, smiling, "I like puzzles, it's like putting the Camaro together, everything has a specific place."

"Yeah, I suppose," Embry hands over the plate, which has a sandwich and a few chips on it, "Sorry I don't have more food here, but this will at least get some carbs and protein in you."

I don't even try to argue, because when it comes to food, Embry somehow always wins, "Don't be silly. This is perfect." I take a big bite of the sandwich, surprised at how hungry I am. As I'm chewing, Embry just smiles and watches.

"So you told me what stories Emily and Rachel shared tonight. What about Kim? What did she tell you?"

My face turns bright pink but I'm excited to share the news with Embry, "Kim told us about how she thinks she got pregnant."

"Pregnant?" Embry looks confused, shocked, then excited, "She's pregnant?"

"Well, she doesn't know for sure yet, but I guess Jared told her? How does that work?" I pop a chip in my mouth, hoping Embry will explain.

"I don't know. I never noticed anything different about Emily when she was pregnant, but Sam swears it was obvious. Maybe it's something to do with her being his imprintee. Or he's just that in tune with her body."

"Hm. Maybe. That's pretty cool- and a little bit freaky," I pause and consider what Kim must have thought when Jared made his prediction. "She didn't even have a chance to surprise him."

"Kim, you mean? Yeah, same thing happened with Emily and Sam."

I sit quietly, nibbling on my sandwich and chips while I mull over this new bit of information.

"But," Embry smirks at me, "It's kind of funny and ironic if you think about it. Usually the woman is the first to know, but with our crazy wolf senses, we guys figure it out first."

I laugh at his logic and shake my head after, surprisingly, I place the last bite of my sandwich in my mouth. I notice the soft expression on Embry's face and realize I've just eaten without him. "You weren't hungry? I should have shared with you."

"Nah, I'm good, I had practically an entire pizza by myself. I just like seeing you enjoy your food."

Embry takes the plate from my hand and I watch as he places it on the coffee table. I'm still not completely accustomed to this; him being this sweet with me, always trying to make sure I'm eating and taking care of myself, and taking over when he thinks I'm not. I imagine this is how he was with his mother and I know he treats the imprintees, plus Eli and Claire, with the same consideration. I know Embry is a good man with a good heart, but it still surprises me how good he is to me.

He turns to me, smiling softly and I'm once again struck by his good looks. When his smile grows, my heart stutters. This man really is the full package; kind, wonderful, strong, and as a bonus, so handsome I have a hard time keeping my eyes off of him. I return his grin then lean my head against his shoulder. Embry exhales and I can feel his lips brush the top of my head before he speaks, "Come on, let's get you to bed."

I playfully argue with Embry but I finally concede. I'm surprised when he lets me walk, but he keeps a firm grip on my hand as I follow him to his bedroom. When he leads me into the small room I look around, taking in the sparse furnishings. There's a bed almost as big as the room with a navy comforter covering it and a couple of fluffy pillows at the top. There's a night stand next to the bed with a lamp and what looks like the remains of an alarm clock placed on top. A large dresser stands next to me and I can see a door to what I assume is the bathroom. The room is nice and tidy, but I don't notice any personal items. There aren't any photos in the room, just a watch which I've never seen Embry wear and other miscellaneous things. I know Embry is a very basic person and the room seems to fit him completely, but I'm a little sad for how empty his life appears to be.

Embry takes me by the arm and pulls me over to sit on the edge of the bed. He's pulled his shirt off and I can't help but gaze at his beautiful, toned skin. He chuckles and I glance up at him, blushing at being caught staring. I reach my hand out to touch his skin. I know that it will be hot before I even glide my fingers along his abs.

"You are so hot," my lips mutter before I can stop them. Embry takes my hand and runs it up his chest, pulling me up from the bed, while he steps closer to me. My mouth is dry but I try to moisten my lips with my tongue. When I do this I feel a rumble in Embry's chest and I can't help but giggle. Obviously, even with the food he's fed me I am still a bit tipsy. I should be embarrassed at myself, but I'm delighting in trying to push his buttons.

"Lillah," he growls my name unlike I've heard before and I look up at him innocently. Before he can stop me I lean up on my tip toes and press my lips to his. I don't have to initiate anything else. Embry increases the pressure on my mouth and I open my lips to accept his tongue. I sigh into his mouth and shiver a little when Embry pulls me to him. He tastes my bottom lip with his silky tongue and I sigh into his hot mouth. I press my body closer to his, wanting to feel him against me. When I shift my hips Embry hisses but doesn't stop the kiss. Instead of slowing and letting up he increases the pressure.

I'm engrossed in Embry's kiss, but eventually I have to pull my mouth away from his just to catch my breath. Before I can go back to his lips, Embry sits me back down on the edge of the bed.

He steps back, grinning, but there is something in his eyes, like he's once again holding back. He walks over to the dresser, pulling something out of his pocket which he puts away in a top drawer, then pulls out some clothes from a bottom drawer. He sets a pair of shorts and a t-shirt beside me while holding onto a pair of boxers, "You can change into those, if you'd like. I'm going to take a quick shower." Embry leans forward and slowly brushes his lips across mine, "I'll be right back, just have to wash up and take care of some things."

"Some things?" I know what he means but I'm hoping he'll actually say it. I wish he'd let me touch him, it's not fair that he won't let me help him out. I haven't really wanted to in the past but with him, I'm craving it. I hope it's not because I'm bad at it. I know the girls told me earlier that if he came, he enjoyed himself, but those doubts still linger for me.

Embry stops at the door to the bathroom, leaning against the frame with a devilish smile on his face, "You know, but I'll give you details if you want. I'm going to take a shower so I can get myself off while I think about you. You were so fucking sexy on that pool table; it won't take long, trust me."

I feel my entire body shake as images of a naked Embry pleasuring himself flash across my mind. A thought crosses my mind and I have to hold back a smile as I stand from the bed, arms crossed when I look at Embry.

"Embry, you aren't a boob man, right?"

"Right, I'm a 'Lillah man'," he reaffirms.

I slowly round the bed, "And you're going to go take a shower to take care of your 'issue'. While you are doing that, you are going to think about me?"

"Yes," he almost looks as if he's going to blush.

"While I'm here, in your bed, thinking about wanting to touch you," I near the other side of the bed, standing just a few feet away from Embry now.

"Lillah, it's not-."

I cut him off before he can finish, finally speaking one of my worries to him, "And just to be clear, it's not because I touched you wrong last night, right?"

"God no! It's just, Lillah, I'm not in control right now. I'm so hard; it won't take much to send me over."

"Ok, but you said you're that way because of what we did earlier, because of me."

"Yes, I told you the other night, you are the only one that causes- this."

I nod once then look up at him, resolving myself to saying this, "Then why won't you let me help you? If I cause it, and you're a 'Lillah man', then I should be able to help my man with the problem I caused."

"What?"

Remembering his reaction earlier, as I take the last few steps needed to reach Embry, I slowly unbutton my shirt again. I hear him growl as I step closer, letting my top slide off my shoulders. When my nose is almost against his chest, I reach up, pulling his head down to me. I slide my lips over his as I whisper, "Please, Embry. Let me help you instead of taking care of it on your own. I want-"

I close my eyes and exhale slowly before speaking what's on my mind; "I want to touch you again, Embry. I want to help you."

"Fuck."

I laugh, the response falling off my tongue without me thinking about it, "I'd like to do that too, eventually, but I'd be happy just touching you tonight."

"Woman." Embry is growling but he wraps his arms around me, pulling me tight against his chest, "You are going to kill me."

"I certainly hope not. I'd like to keep you around for a while longer. I enjoy what you do to me too much, especially your tongue earlier," I add the last part just to drive him a little more crazy. Or, I hope that's what I'm achieving with my words.

Embry groans, pulling me against him then spinning us both around. He pushes my back against the wall as his lips crash down on mine. I automatically wrap my legs around his hips, sighing into his mouth. A deep rumble travels through Embry's chest and vibrates against mine. His hands grip my hips, clutching me close to him, pulling my body tighter against his. I moan into his mouth when he slips his tongue in to touch mine. I can't get enough of his taste and the feel of him against my body. I am so close to losing it, to beg him to take me right here. In my still tipsy state, it seems like an excellent idea.

His lips pull away from mine and I give him a little pout, which he laughs at. He places a few kisses on my lips, keeping them light, giving me time to breathe. Once I've stopped gasping for air, Embry looks down at me, his brows knitted together, "You really want to? Because you don't have to if you don't want to. I'm capable of taking care of myself."

"I want to take care of you, Embry." Even in my current state, I know I mean more than just this current situation. I want to take care of him in every way possible. I want to be with him all the time, spend my life with him.

Still reeling from that realization, I barely notice Embry has moved us from the wall to the bed. When I look up at him, he's once again sliding my pants off. The giggle escapes from my mouth without me realizing, "Embry, I want to touch you. Why are you undressing me?"

"Because there is nothing sexier than having you naked in my arms as you stroke me."

"Wha-?" I gasp out because I have no reply for him. I have to remind myself to breath because I'm feeling lightheaded just picturing it. And then I feel him lightly kissing up my skin, starting at my thighs then moving over my hips, up my stomach to my breasts. Embry once again removes my bra, cupping my freed breasts in his hands before continuing his kisses up to my lips.

Embry sinks down lower onto me. I can feel he is still wearing his jeans. I pout before whispering against his lips, "Embry, why are you still dressed? I want to touch- feel all of you."

Embry drops a few kisses on my lips before leaning his forehead against mine, sighing, "Not completely naked, Lillah. I want you too much; I don't trust myself to be naked with you."

I'm surprised by my reaction to this admission. I know Embry wants me, but for him to admit that he doesn't trust himself makes me feel a little more powerful.

Embry has moved to the side of the bed, his hands at the top of his jeans. I move to the edge of the mattress, covering his hands with mine. I lean into his body, tilting my head back to look into his eyes, "May I?"

I can feel and hear the rumble in Embry's chest, but he nods before moving his hands to my head. As my hands move over the button of his jeans, he pulls me to his lips. I'm trying to stay focused on unbuttoning his jeans, but his lips are distracting. I can feel his erection under my fingers as I finally release the button and begin sliding the zipper down slowly.

Once I reach the end of the zipper, Embry's tongue takes over my mouth as he moves one hand from my mouth to cup my breast. Mimicking his hand on my breast, I push his jeans aside, cupping him through his boxers. I moan into his mouth and pull back gasping for air, but refusing to remove my hand.

Embry releases my breast, chuckling as he whispers against my ear, "Lillah, I need to take off my jeans."

"Ok."

Embry wraps his hand around my wrist, tugging it back, "I can't take my jeans off if you have a death grip on my cock."

"I don't- I didn't have a death grip on your-," I can't manage to choke the word out, especially since he's sliding his jeans off.

Once he has them removed Embry leans forward, pushing me back to the bed. He hovers over me, grinning wide. "What? You can say it," Embry's eyes are sparkling with laughter. "You had a death grip on my..."

I shake my head, feeling the blush bloom across my cheeks, "I can't say that Embry."

"Sure you can. Just tell me what part of my body you want to touch. You don't have to say 'cock', you can use whatever word you are most comfortable with, just tell me."

Embry rolls off of me, laying back on the bed, his legs stretched out across the mattress. His erection is more than obvious and my hands itch to caress him again. He keeps watching me; even after it's obvious I'm looking at his crotch.

I flick my tongue over my lips to moisten them then look up at Embry. I don't know why it's so hard for me to say this, but I look back down at his erection then look away from him as I choke out, "Dick."

Embry smirks then pulls me to him, "What about my dick?"

"I want to touch it."

"I want you to touch my dick," Embry grins wide which makes me laugh.

"You are enjoying this a little too much, Embry," I whisper as I move my hand slowly over his abs.

"I don't mean to tease you, Lillah, but you are very hard to resist, especially when you tell me what you want."

I push myself up his body, but leave my hand at the waistband of his boxers. I grin as I whisper against his mouth, "I don't get why you enjoy hearing me say words like 'dick'."

Embry barks out a laugh, "The same reason why I enjoy having you touch me. I told you, all of you turns me on, including hearing you say that. Now you know what it's like when you tell me what you want.

"In that case," my hand moves into his boxers, my fingers barely slipping under the elastic waistband before I find the tip of him. My breathing picks up and I feel my own reaction to being so close to him. My body is already throbbing in anticipation of touching him, and hoping he will touch me in return.

I can feel Embry's body convulse as I run one finger down his length. I smile up at him, "I take it I'm doing it right?"

"More than right. You touching me drives me wild, baby," I can see his jaw clench but his smile turns me on even more. His grin grows even wider, "How does it make you feel to touch me?"

I don't say anything for a few moments, letting my fingers move over his shaft, feeling the extra skin slide up with the pressure of my hand around him. I realize the girls were right earlier, Embry is uncircumcised. I don't really know the difference, so I'm trusting in his instructions. I tug the skin up over the head like he told me to do last night and I can hear him hiss.

"Sort of like that," I run my fingers back down to his base then repeat the pattern, tugging the skin up then sliding my fingers down. I nip at his chest before looking up at him, "One little touch from you and I feel like I'm teetering on the edge."

Embry has his eyes closed and his head leaned back but speaks through his teeth, "Are you as turned on from touching me as I am?"

"Mmmm. Yes," I'm surprised at the sound of my voice, almost like I'm purring, but it's the truth. Touching Embry turns me on just as much as having him touch me.

I'm so focused on my pattern with him I don't realize his hands have moved. I feel one of his hands cup my breast as the other moves down my back and over my ass, stopping at my thigh. I gasp when he lifts my thigh and moves my leg to curl around his. This new position opens me up to him I moan loudly, unable to contain my excitement at knowing he's going to pleasure me again, while I'm doing the same to him.

"I can tell how excited you are, Lillah. Your heart is pounding, your breathing is erratic, your hand keeps tightening around me," Embry leans down and whispers as he places his hand between my legs, "and I can feel how wet you are."

I can't contain my moan at Embry's words, "How can you tell all that?"

Embry doesn't say anything, just grins, pulling my mouth toward his. As his lips find mine, he slides a finger into me. I gasp into his mouth, tightening my grip on him more than I intend to. Embry pulls back from my lips, growling, "Fuck, yes baby! A little tighter!"

I adjust my body, needing to get as close to him as possible. I twist my hand so I have a better grip on Embry and can feel his fingers go ever deeper. I move over him at the same pace his fingers are moving in me. Our mutual sounds of satisfaction echo around the room, mixed in with panting breaths. He feels so good, touching me, filling me. I grow wetter, my clit burning for release and my stomach tightening. I know it's not going to take much. Even with the few times Embry has brought me to orgasm, I already know this feeling and I revel in it.

I press my hips down to grind on his hand and he presses his thumb against my nub, sending me over the edge. I open my mouth over his nipple, biting down as my orgasm takes over my body. Embry's chest lifts off the bed when my teeth sink into his skin. My hand stills around him and I feel him move his over mine. He's growling in my ear, "That's right, nearly there, Lils. Shit you feel so fucking good!"

He lifts his hips up to create friction for himself. His fingers are still moving in me, bringing me to another peak and I begin moving my hand again. He quickens our strokes then stops, letting go of my hand, growling, "Lillah, if you don't want to feel me cum, you need to move your hand, now."

I shake my head and lift my face to look at him. I want to share this part with him too. I want to feel him cum because of what I did, because of me. I grip his shaft tighter, "I want us both to- come," I gasp out the word, Embry's thumb finding my clit at that moment, "together, Embry."

He begins moving his hand over mine as he once again increases his fingers movements in me. His hips begin to pump up to meet our strokes and there is a low growl vibrating his chest. I grab his hair with my free hand, pulling him to my lips. Embry's hand stills over mine as he pulls back from my lips, "Short strokes, over the tip baby. God I love your hand on my cock."

"Yes! Embry- can't stop! Again!" My hands move against him just like he said until he pinches my clit, sending me into another orgasm. How the hell does he keep doing that? My hand never stops moving over him even through my orgasm and I hear him moan, screaming my name as he finally cums against my hand.

We slow our movements as we both calm down. Embry pulls me to him, kissing me deeply, slowly. My mouth is slack, trying to draw in oxygen and Embry gently removes my hand from around his now flaccid shaft. He pulls my hand from his boxers and I feel his grin against my lips. He leans his head to the side and licks sweat from my neck before saying, "Come on, let's go clean you up before you pass out."

"I'm fine," I tell him. I'm wide awake now, adrenaline pumping through my veins. "How do you do that all the time?" I need to know if it's always like this.

Embry moves from the bed, easily picking me up. He carries me into the sparse bathroom that smells just like him. He sets me down on the counter top but holds me against his chest to keep me stable. I spread my legs, allowing him to step between them.

"Do what?" He asks as he turns on the water in the sink and grabs a bar of soap before moving my hands under the warm water.

"Make me have two orgasms all the time?" I want to protest, tell him to stop, I can do it myself, but him washing my hands is probably one of the sweetest things he's ever done for me.

He grins as he dries my hands with a towel, "I don't know, I've never done that with any other woman before."

I don't say anything, considering his words. He's never done that with any other woman, and yet, almost every time we are together it happens for me.

He finishes cleaning both of us up and then once again picks me up and carries me back into the bedroom, "You know I can walk, right Embry?"

He places me on the bed before grabbing the clothes he put next to me earlier. He pulls the t-shirt over my head, grinning, "I know you can walk, I like carrying you."

"I guess it's a good thing you're so strong then."

"You are so stubborn," Embry pulls me to stand, kneeling to help me into the pair of shorts. When he tightens the drawstring on the shorts he places a small kiss on my stomach, "Being strong doesn't matter, you weigh next to nothing. I just like having you in my arms. Especially when you are naked."

I shake my head, "You are crazy."

Embry pulls the covers back on the bed and I happily crawl into the bed, reveling in being surrounded by his scent. He follows me into the bed, setting the alarm on his phone before turning off the light. Embry pulls me to him, and I immediately wrap myself around him, needing to be as close to him as possible in my sleep.

As I fall asleep I hear Embry whisper, "I am crazy. Crazy about you."

-0-

I hear Embry speaking before I can manage to open my eyes. I know he's whispering, and I can hear him saying my name, but my brain isn't awake enough to process the words he's saying. My mouth feels dry and my stomach is rolling slightly. Ugh, definitely no more beer.

I reach for the glass of water I keep on my bedside table but I don't feel anything. Slowly opening my eyes I see the problem. That's not my bedside table. Then I remember, Embry brought me to his place last night. When I turn to look at Embry, he hands me a glass of water then speaks into the phone, "Lillah's waking up- I know Rachel- I get it, I screwed up- Well you're the one who returned her to me drunk!" I can hear Rachel screaming at him on the other end, but Embry just calmly says, "We'll be there shortly- No, she won't be late, I told you! Goodbye, Rachel!"

He hangs up the phone as I drink as much of the water as I can. When he sets the phone down I realize it was my phone, "Hey!"

"I didn't want you to wake up, you looked so peaceful. I saw it was Rachel so I answered it. Be glad I did, she's in rare form. I'm hoping after she has some coffee she'll calm down."

I finish off the water and hand the glass back to him. He sets both the glass and the phone on the table next to him. I wrap my arms around his waist and lean my head against his chest, not wanting to move, but knowing I need to get home soon to make it to school on time, "What time is it?"

"Almost six, but don't worry, the reason why Rachel called was to tell me to bring you over to her place to get ready. She has clothes waiting for you."

I laugh at this, "I can't fit into any of Rachel's clothes!"

"Rachel said if you said you couldn't fit into her clothes I was to tell you to 'shut up' and to 'get your sexy ass' - her words, though I completely agree - 'over there and get ready so you aren't late'."

I glance up at Embry, "How did she know I was here?"

"She guessed, at least that's what she told me. I don't know, woman's intuition? Plus I think she knows I would have gotten your car last night if we had gone back to your house."

"Yeah, I guess," I don't like the idea that Rachel knows I stayed over at Embry's place. Even though she knows Embry has stayed the night a few times at my house, somehow being here seems like a bigger deal. Like he's letting me see a special part of him that few people ever get to see, outside of his wolf family. "So we should probably get going."

Embry leans down and kisses the top of my head, "We have a little bit of time still. I just need to take a quick shower then I can take you over to Rachel's before I go to work."

I can't help the smile as I look up at Embry, resting my chin against his chest, "Just a shower?"

"Just a shower, I promise." Embry's chest is rumbling with laughter as he leans down and kisses me, his lips moving slowly over mine, "Good morning. How did you sleep?"

"I slept-," my phone is ringing again.

Embry growls low, his frustration evident. He rolls his eyes then grins at me, "Hold that thought." Embry places my phone to his ear and speaks, obviously irritated, "Rachel, calm down. Lillah is still waking up. I don't interrupt you and Paul first thing in the morning! She's not going to be late for school, it's fine. No one will know she stayed the night. Give us five minutes and we'll be over there, I just need to take a quick shower."

When he finishes speaking I'm surprised Rachel isn't laying into him. Normally she'd be chewing Embry out for speaking to her like that. Not that she doesn't deserve it. I trust that Embry won't make me late for school, he's concerned about making sure my reputation is kept clean. Too concerned in my opinion, but whatever.

Looking up at Embry, I'm shocked by what I see; Embry's face is drained of all color. He looks petrified, which scares me, since he's so strong, nothing should scare him. I start panicking when he doesn't say anything, "Embry? Em, what's wrong? Who is it?"

When Embry looks at me I can tell he's worried. My heart is pounding, I'm scared for him to tell me but also desperate to know what is going on, "Please Embry, just tell me."

"I'm so sorry, baby." Embry is whispering, covering up the phone with his enormous hands, "I- I didn't look at the caller ID. I just assumed it was Rachel."

I reach for his hands, my heart ready to pound out of my chest I'm so worried now, "Embry, let me see who it is. What's wrong?"

"It's- shit, I'm so sorry, Lillah. It's your mom."

My heart drops then starts racing double time. I'm breathing so hard I feel like I've just run a marathon. My hands are tugging on Embry's, trying to pry the phone out of his hands, "I'm so dead! Embry! Give me the damn phone," I finally tug it from his grasp, quickly placing it to my ear.

It feels like my cheeks are on fire as I slowly speak into the phone, "Mom?"

"'Damn phone'? Lillah, I did not teach you to speak like that." My heart speeds up again as panic sets in. Oh my God. My mom knows I stayed over at Embry's place last night. Shit. Damnit all to hell. I'm so dead. I feel like I'm fifteen and got caught sneaking out of my bedroom window. Not that I have an experience with that type of thing. I collapse against Embry, no longer able to keep my body sitting up as I prepare mentally to have a discussion with my mother I don't think I'm ready for. Not because I don't want to tell her about Embry, far from it, but I don't want her assuming there is more going on.

"I'm sorry, Mom. I was just- surprised," I slowly exhale as I feel Embry's hands move over me, one playing with my hair the other sliding up and down my back.

"Not as surprised as I was. I was worried about you since we haven't talked since Monday. Lillah Ayiana Hunter, what is going on over there? Did you really stay the night at some man's house? Who is he?"

"Mom, I promise you, it's ok. I just drank a little too much last night while at my friend Rachel's house. Embry brought me back here to sober up," I can feel Embry's chest rumble with laughter and I look up, warning him to keep his mouth shut. I mouth at him, "This is your fault."

Embry's chest sinks and I see him mouth back, "I'm so sorry."

I nod and kiss the spot over his heart. I know he didn't mean to get me in 'trouble', and, in all honesty, as much time as we've been spending together, my mom was bound to find out sooner rather than later.

"You were drunk? On a school night? Lillah, I don't like you hanging out with these people if they are that irresponsible."

I sigh. I love my mother, and I know she and my father are just trying to protect me, but sometimes it feels like they are more worried about how things look, "Mom, I'm the one that decided to drink. I can't talk about this right now, I have to go get ready for school. I'll call you when I get home this afternoon, I promise. I love you."

"We will talk when you get home from school. You can be sure of that, young lady," I haven't heard my mom call me 'young lady' in a few years, not since high school at least. Her tone of voice and her words make me feel like a kid again. I'm so screwed.

"This afternoon, I'll talk to you later, Mom, I have to go. I love you."

"I love you, too. Goodbye, dear."

I sigh hanging up the phone. I crash into Embry, my body spent already and it's not even six thirty in the morning, "God I'm so dead."

"I'm sorry, Lillah. I'll talk to her, and your Dad, if that will help," Embry sounds so sincere and I know he didn't mean to cause any problems. This wasn't something he planned, it isn't his fault my parents over react.

I look up at him, cupping his face before brushing my lips against his, "It's okay, Em. I'm not mad at you. Right now she just wants to talk to me this afternoon, after school."

"I can miss the first part of patrols, be there when she calls, if you want," my heart does summersaults at the idea of Embry speaking to my mother. This goes beyond being a good friend, this sounds like he wants to protect me. From my mom?

"I should be fine, just stop by after patrols. I might have my face buried in a chocolate cake to drown my sorrows. I think my mom is going to lay it on thick this time."

"Lay what on?"

"The guilt." I sigh, looking up at him, "It will be fine. You go shower and I'll get dressed. We need to get going so we aren't both late for work."

Embry pulls me up his body, his hands on my hips, pulling me until I'm straddling his waist, his lips crush mine and I sink into him, my body needing this rush to get going again. I grin when he pulls back, "It'll be okay, I promise."

"I'm sure your mom can't stay mad at you too long. We'll make it ok, I like having you in my bed too much," this statement causes the butterflies to take flight in my stomach. "Plus, you look damn sexy in my t-shirt. I think I might need to wear that shirt today so I can smell you all day long."

Embry walks into the bathroom, giving me one last look over his shoulder before closing the door. I change back into my clothes from the day before. Instead of dwelling on what might happen this evening I decide to focus on the possibility of seeing Embry again tonight. I'm dreading having to deal with Rachel this morning and my Mom this afternoon, but the thought of another evening with Embry makes both encounters completely worth it.

My stomach grumbling spurs me to move. I grab my phone and find my way to the kitchen, not surprised by the empty counter tops. I open a few cabinets until I find Embry's cereal collection, grinning when I see all the boxes. I pull down the Lucky Charms, find a bowl and pull the milk out of the refrigerator. I grab a second bowl and place it next to the box on the counter. I hop up onto the counter beside the sink and finish my cereal. I hear Embry yelling my name from the bedroom so I call back that I'm in the kitchen.

He comes into the kitchen, frowning until he sees me. Then his face lights up, "You scared me."

"I was hungry," I lift the bowl up to show him then point at the box on the counter, "I left it out in case you wanted some. I would have made you a bowl but I didn't want it to get soggy."

"I hate soggy cereal," Embry grins, making a bowl for himself then leaning against the counter next to me, eating his gigantic bowl of cereal.

I've barely finished mine and he's done. I set the bowl in the sink, laughing when he rinses both of our dishes out, "Did you even chew?"

"I was hungry and we're in a hurry. Come on, Rachel is waiting," Embry helps me down from the counter then grabs my hand, pulling me through the apartment and out to his truck.

-0-

"Where the hell have you been? We barely have twenty minutes to get her ready."

Rachel pulls me into the house, pushing me toward what I assume is her and Paul's bedroom, "Strip down, I'll get the shower going. You can use my bath stuff, just hurry. I'll do your make-up while you fix your hair. We are going to be so late! Stupid Embry."

"Rachel, this isn't his fault."

"I know it isn't his fault, you went over there willingly, but he should have made sure you had stuff to get ready. It's his job as your-," Rachel stops herself then turns back to me, "Why did you agree to stay over knowing you didn't have anything for this morning?"

I shrug, "I trust Embry. He wouldn't let anything happen to make me look bad. He would have made sure I got home in time for work today."

Rachel shakes her head then points to the bathroom, "Just get in the shower and hurry, call me when you are done."

I quickly wash my hair, knowing that Rachel is right, we don't have much time. As soon as I'm done, I wrap one towel around my head and another around my body, stepping out into the bedroom. I quickly call out, "Rachel, I'm done."

I spot a hair dryer on the counter. I quickly let my hair fall from the towel around my head and use the hair dryer to at least get most of the moisture out of my hair. It's a mess, but I know I have a ponytail holder in my purse that I can use.

Rachel runs in as I'm just turning off the hair dryer. She has a chair in her hand and sets it down in front of the vanity, "Sit."

"Fine, but not a lot of make-up Rachel."

"Don't worry, I can't use foundation or anything on you, mine is all way too dark for you. Besides, you skin is so beautiful, I'd hate to cover it with foundation."

"It's not that beautiful."

"Well, Embry threatened to skin me alive if I even thought of covering your skin with make-up, so he must agree with me."

I look up, surprised, "He's still here?"

"Yeah, said he wouldn't leave until you do, she wants to make sure you get out of here on time." Rachel pauses then grins at me, "So, did you seduce him last night? Because even when I bit his head off earlier he seemed way less cranky than he has been."

"Rachel, we don't have time for this discussion," I close my eyes as she applies some eye shadow.

"Spoil sport. I'm going to assume you at least gave him another hand job, though you really should consider going down on him, it's amazing."

I wrinkle my nose, "I don't know Rachel."

"You aren't ready for that yet, I get it, but when you are, I'll give you some pointers so you both enjoy yourselves."

Rachel leans back, examining her work, "You're done, there's a dress on the bed, come out when you're done and we'll leave."

I pull on the purple silk dress, surprised it fits so well, then slide my feet back into my black heels I wore yesterday.

When I walk out into the living room I see Rachel, but my eyes naturally fall on Embry. The look on his face stops me in my tracks. He's not smiling, but his eyes are wide, like he's surprised. I'm suddenly shy; worried I was wrong when I thought I looked okay while walking out of the bedroom. I frown at Embry, "That bad?"

Embry looks confused, "Bad? No. You look amazing. I don't know how Rachel did it, but she managed to make you even more beautiful. I may need to stay at the school all day to keep those football players at bay."

"Embry! Not that again."

He shrugs then grins, pulling me against him, whispering, "You look amazing, that dress is perfect for you. If Rachel doesn't give it to you, I'm going to go buy one for you."

"Come on, no time for compliments, we are late," Rachel barks out from behind us.

Embry gives me a quick kiss before escorting me to my car, then opens the door and helps me in. Once I'm settled he leans in again, reaching over my lap for my right hand, "Embry, what are you doing?"

He takes my hand, pulling it close to him, before removing my friendship bracelet, which makes me frown, "Embry?"

He still doesn't say anything, but next thing I know, he's sliding the twisted up bracelet on the ring finger of my right hand. Embry kisses the makeshift ring and then lightly brushes his lips against mine, finally explaining, "We should match. Besides, you look too beautiful in that dress. If you won't let me give warnings through marking up your skin," Embry winks, "this is my next best option. Hopefully this will make those students of yours have second thoughts about drooling over you."

I want to cry. I can feel the tears forming. I try to blink them away before Embry can see, but he catches me. He smiles softly, using his thumb to wipe the few that escaped away, "These are good tears, right? I'm not in trouble am I?"

"Yes, good tears. I-," I try to compose myself, not wanting to give away how special this moment is to me. Exhaling slowly, I smile up at Embry, "I like matching, and if you have to give warning to high school students, this is a much better option." I whisper out the next part, unable to use my full voice for fear I will start crying again, "Thank you, Embry. This means a lot."

"You're welcome," Embry kisses my closed eyelids before leaning back, "I'm just glad I'm not in trouble. I'll see you later? I'll try to get off patrols early, in case you need me for dealing with your mom."

I sigh, dreading this afternoon, "I'll be fine. I promise."

"I know, but I'm the reason you're in this situation, I want to help fix it. I will see you later."

I nod slowly, not wanting to go to school, but knowing I need to leave, now. I'd much rather spend all day with Embry, or even just spend the day staring at this silly little friendship ring that probably means much more to me than it should. Sighing, I take off, waving at Embry in my rear view mirror until I can't see him any longer. Even with the conversation with my mom looming over me, I have Embry to look forward to tonight. I know it shouldn't, but that thought alone will carry me through the day.

-0-

Have you talked to your mom yet?

I smile when I see Embry's text. Seeing his face on my phone helps to calm the nerves I've felt building all afternoon. As always, his timing is perfect, I just sat down in my car after surviving one of the longest days of school I've ever had. I go ahead and start Candy, giving the car a chance to warm up while I respond.

No, just got in my car, was going to call on my way home. Aren't you supposed to be patrolling?

I don't have to wait long for Embry's reply.

Patrolled a little already, told Jake I'd see him later. He owes me. Let me know if you need me.

I'm tempted to respond with "I always need you", but stop myself.

I'm sure it'll be fine, go patrol. I'll tell you tonight what happened.

Embry's response is just as quick as before.

I'm ditching patrols early, Jake can cover, I'll be over there as soon as I can.

My heart skitters, but my smile is huge as I look at the friendship ring on my right hand.

Ok, but don't get in any trouble with Jake. I'll see you soon.

Once again, Embry is quick to respond.

No trouble, soon, very soon.

I sigh, wanting to drag out the text conversation with Embry, but knowing I need to get this phone call with my mom done. I call her, putting the phone on speaker as I pull out of the school parking lot.

I don't even hear the phone ring before my mom's voice fills the Camaro, "Lillah, are you calling me while driving again?"

"Mom, I'm using the speaker phone, two hands on the wheel except for when I shift, I promise," I know my mom hates for me to drive and talk on the phone, but I need to be distracted to deal with this conversation.

But my mom will have none of it today, "Lillah, I'm going to hang up now. We'll talk when you get to the house."

Before I can say anything, my mom disconnects. This more than anything tells me I'm in pretty serious trouble. My mom never hangs up on me. She usually gives me a hard time about driving and talking on the phone, but she's never hung up on me before.

I manage to keep the tears at bay, but I grab the phone and text Embry while at the stop light.

Come over as soon as you can. I'll be the one buried in the chocolate cake. It's bad. She just hung up on me. I'm supposed to call her back when I get home.

Embry's response comes through just as I pull into the garage.

Just let me take one quick loop around Forks and I'll be on my way. Don't call her until I get there. I want to explain to her this isn't your fault. You did nothing wrong.

I can't stop the tears this time, but I manage to type out a quick OK before climbing out of the car and dragging myself into the house. All I can think about is going to my bedroom and crying my eyes out until Embry gets here. My mom has never before sounded so disappointed in me and it hurts me more than I ever thought it could. As I'm walking through the kitchen I'm looking down, not paying attention to my surroundings, but I jump a mile high and nearly scream when a voice startles me.

"Lillah! What are you wearing? I don't remember you ever buying that dress. And what is that on your finger?"

I look up to see my mom sitting at the kitchen table, her arms crossed and eyes narrowed. As she finishes her examination of me, she walks over, pulling me into a hug, "I love you, but you have a lot of explaining to do young lady."

-0-

A/N: Ruh roh.

More info - Lillah's middle name: [dot]weddingvendors[dot]com/baby-names/meaning/ayiana/, Dress Rachel loaned Lillah: www[dot]farfetch[dot]com/shopping/women/search/schid-/item10041423[dot]aspx