After another few intense rounds, Nyx finally pulled back with a hoarse, breathless groan, lips swollen and glistening, jaw aching fiercely.
"I...I give up."
She rasped, half-laughing, half-whimpering.
"It's not going down at all. You're inhuman, Hero."
Luca chuckled softly, reaching down to help her up.
Without another word, Nyx crawled into his lap like a tired cat seeking warmth. She curled against his chest, tucking her head under his chin, arms wrapping loosely around his waist.
And the moment her body settled fully against his—the exhaustion crashed over her like a wave.
Her breathing slowed. Her eyelids fluttered once, twice...and then she was asleep.
Deep, peaceful, baby-like sleep.
Luca tightened his hold around her, one hand cradling the back of her head, the other resting protectively over her lower back.
He stared up at the moon, feeling oddly content, and before long, sleep claimed him too.
