The words reverberated through Gabriel's chest, like a tremor, a ripple in his very soul.
'My mark.'
Gabriel fought the urge to react, to succumb to the strange heat that had spread throughout his body, fueled by Damian's presence. He could feel his pulse in his throat, the raw tension of the moment stretching thin. But he wouldn't let Damian see it. Not yet. Not when the price was so high.
"I..." Gabriel began, but the words caught in his throat. What was he supposed to say? That he would never allow Damian to take control of him? That he would never let himself be a possession?
Damian stepped closer still, his voice soft, almost coaxing. "You're already mine, Gabriel." His fingers brushed Gabriel's jaw, a gentle caress that sent a rush of heat through his body. "You just don't know it yet."
