Chapter 25: Lydia

I open the bedroom door to Sam's exuberant dog kisses. At least he missed me. I lie down on the lush carpet and let him cuddle while I run my fingers through his short black fur.

Then I cry.

I'm not sure how much time passes, when a quiet knock sounds at the front door. I lift myself from the floor and open the door to Raul. He hesitates for only a moment before his arms slip around me. The tears start again.

"Oh, baby," he whispers while rubbing my back with slow circles.

Sobs bubble up from my throat and spill over. Raul lifts me, and my strong submissive friend carries me to the couch where he sits with me on his lap. He places gentle kisses on my head. The truth spills out and I tell him everything about my night with Damian. With a last sniff, I admit I've fallen in love with the damn hell's spawn.

Raul squeezes me tighter. "He loves you too, Lydia. I don't know why he left without a word, but he'll be back. The man has eyes for no one but you. Even when you don't know he's t