The demon attack came without warning.
Not Asmodeus—his agents, testing the coalition's defenses. Adrian and Kieran fought side by side, their movements synchronized from five years of partnership.
When the demons finally retreated, both vampires were covered in ichor and running on adrenaline.
"That was close," Adrian said, breathing hard despite not needing air.
"Too close." Kieran turned to him, his eyes still red from battle. "You almost got hurt."
"But I didn't. We won."
"You almost—" Kieran couldn't finish. Instead, he grabbed Adrian and kissed him desperately.
Adrian responded immediately, adrenaline transforming into arousal. They stumbled into a nearby alley, hands frantic, mouths demanding.
"Need you," Kieran growled. "Need to confirm you're alive, you're safe."
"Right here?"
"Right here."
Kieran spun Adrian to face the wall, pulled his pants down, and entered him with minimal preparation. Adrian gasped at the sudden fullness, the slight burn, the perfect rightness of it.
"Still alive," Adrian gasped. "Very alive."
"Mine. Safe. Alive." Kieran's movements were frantic, driven by the need to reaffirm they'd both survived.
The danger, the public location, the desperate need—everything combined into intense pleasure. They came together quickly, both crying out, uncaring who might hear.
"Better?" Adrian asked afterward.
"Getting there." Kieran's hands were still shaking. "When I saw that demon lunge at you—"
"I'm fine. We're both fine." Adrian turned in his arms. "Take me home. Make love to me properly."
They went home and did exactly that, Kieran taking his time, relearning every inch of Adrian's body, confirming he was whole and unharmed. They made love until dawn, both finally convinced the other had survived.
"I hate when you're in danger," Kieran said.
"I hate when you're in danger. Guess we're even."
"We should retire. Live somewhere peaceful, avoid all conflicts."
"You'd be bored in a week."
"Probably. But you'd be safe."
"I'm safe with you. Always."