He could say that again. And what the hell would making love to the man be like if a mere kiss had this effect?
Part of me wasn't entirely sure I was up for it, but the long frustrated rest of me howled those doubts down.
"So why have you guys got the reputation for being such cold and clinical beings?"
"Because it is true. It is only the brief breeding urge that hits near the end of our life span that causes such a dramatic turnaround."
I said, "Meaning you're near the end of your life span?"
And if so, maybe I'd better rethink the whole sex thing. I might be chipped to prevent conception—all wolves of breeding age were—but that didn't mean accidents couldn't happen. Especially around someone who'd been born energy rather than flesh.
He smiled and shook his head. "I am nowhere near the end of my span, but I have been in this form for a long time now, and have come to appreciate its more—shall we say—earthy peculiarities?"
"Peculiarities?" I said, releasing his arm and stepping away on still-unsteady legs. "I've never heard sex described that way before. I'll call you tomorrow."
"Do," he said, shoving his hands into his pockets—as if to stop himself from reaching for me again.
I turned and walked away. His gaze followed me, burning into my spine long after I'd turned the corner and he was no longer in sight.
Rocky's beat-up SUV was parked three cars down. Tao leaned across the passenger seat and opened the door for me. His nostrils flared as he retreated, and a wry smile touched his lips.
"Don't you smell unbearably frustrated."
"And you smell unbelievably satisfied." I tossed my purse into the back and climbed in. "If you say one more word about my condition, I shall beat you to a living pulp."
He laughed, threw the car into gear, and took off. "I'm always available for a little light relief. All you have to do is say the word and I'm there."
"We agreed six months ago we were not going to cross that line anymore." Because it was easy, because it was safe. Because it wasn't forcing me to step out into the dating scene and risk my heart again.