When I finally stepped out of the SUV and turned to face her, she gasped and began coughing. I quickly left my men behind and rushed to her side, while her alpha gently tapped her back. I lifted her chin to meet my gaze, wrapping my other hand around her waist. "Breathe, Addison," I urged.
One of my men hurried over with a bottle of water from my SUV. I opened it and held it up to her lips. She drank, but her eyes remained locked on mine. Once she finished, she pulled away slightly, still gazing at me in disbelief. "Ashley?" she asked, her voice a mix of surprise and excitement.
I nodded, smiling wide.
"You're Ashley... like Ashley Ashley...my Ashley?" She placed a hand over her chest, her eyes wide with wonder. My heart raced; she referred to me as hers, and I felt like it might leap from my chest and land at her feet.
I nodded again, repeating her words, "Yes... the one and only... your Ashley." Her expression was one of disbelief, and I could see the spark of recognition in her eyes.
"But... you're a guy... you're a... full-grown man," she stuttered, her eyes darting down my body. I couldn't help but feel a surge of pride; I was glad I'd done push-ups at the hotel before the drive, as my chest was definitely out.
I chuckled at her shocked expression. "Last time I checked, yes, I am," I replied playfully. Just then, I felt a hand on my shoulder and turned to see Alpha Clark standing behind me. I quickly composed myself. "I'm so sorry, Alpha... where are my manners? I'm Beta Ashli. It's a pleasure to meet you."
Turning back to Addison, I took her hand and brought it to my lips. "I've been looking forward to this meeting for a very long time," I said softly, kissing the back of her hand before letting it go. The moment felt electric, and I could sense the anticipation between us.
