Their Secret Obsession (A Reverse Harem) by Pippa Moon novel Chapter 331

Kane POV

The dusty landscape stretched endlessly before us, a barren expanse bathed in the reddish glow of an otherworldly sky. The air was thick with the scent of sand and stone, and the atmosphere carried a sense of isolation that weighed heavy on my shoulders. In the distance, perched atop a towering cliffside overlooking a restless sea, a grand, fortress-like castle came into view. It's dark stone walls rose high, imposing and formidable, with battlements and spiked extensions lining the tops of its structures. The architecture was rugged, highlighting both strength and age, and it appeared well-defended, with guards stationed at the entrance of the winding, steep path leading up to its towering walls.

The castle seemed to watch over the expansive sandy landscape that stretched to the horizon. The reddish sky cast warm, golden shadows on the fortress walls, emphasising its rugged, defensive design against the arid environment. The sea below churned restlessly, it's dark waters contrasting with the desert-like conditions above. The dramatic ambience made the setting feel even more isolated and formidable.

Astaroth trailed at the back of our group, his presence a constant reminder of our uneasy alliance. Beside me, Lottie walked with determined strides, her eyes fixed on the looming fortress. I rested my hand gently on the nape of her back, feeling the warmth of her skin beneath my fingertips. The simple touch filled me with immeasurable joy. Having her by my side again was everything I needed, though worry for Knox gnawed at the edges of my thoughts.

"Do you remember everything?" I asked, glancing down at her. Her cheeks flushed a delicate pink, and she bit her lower lip—a gesture that never failed to captivate me. I could watch her do that forever and never tire of it.

She didn't answer immediately, and I gently lifted her chin, coaxing her to meet my gaze. Her eyes sparkled with a hint of mischief. Instead of replying, she leaned up to whisper in my ear. Being taller than her, I bent down, inhaling her familiar scent—a blend of wildflowers and something uniquely hers that overwhelmed me with love.

"I remember last night…" she whispered softly.

A smirk tugged at the corners of my lips. "What do you remember?" I teased, our faces mere inches apart.

"I remember how many times you made me…" she trailed off, her eyes dancing with playful insinuation.

"Guys! I have supernatural hearing, you know that, right?" Adam's exasperated voice cut through our moment. Astaroth chuckled behind us, clearly amused.

"Sorry, bro," Lottie laughed, glancing sheepishly at the ground. I sensed her excitement at using the term "bro." Remembering how we both once longed for family, I was thrilled for her to have not one but three amazing brothers.

I looked back over my shoulder at Astaroth, who walked beside Adam. Adam was deliberately ignoring him, his eyes scanning the desolate landscape for any sign of danger or a safe exit. The reddish hue of the sky intensified the fortress's imposing presence, casting dramatic shadows that accentuated its mighty design. When Adam's eyes met mine, I offered an apologetic nod. A silent message passed between us: *I've got this; keep an eye on our girl.* He gave a slight nod in return, his expression softening just enough to show he understood.

Turning back to Lottie, I noticed her gaze drifting over me—not my face, but my still-unclothed form. Her cheeks deepened in colour when she realised she'd been caught, and I felt a thrill at the appreciation in her eyes. I'd missed those beautiful eyes on me, the way they made me feel seen and desired.

"Like what you see?" I grinned, running a hand over my torso.

"Maybe," she teased, biting her lip again, a coy smile playing on her lips.