She gave a choked cry as she threw herself against him, slipping her arms around his waist as she rested her head in the curve of his shoulder.

The ruby was beautiful. And the knowledge that Styx had obviously taken such care with his Christmas surprise made her want to cry with joy.

But what filled her heart was the knowledge that this man was her mate. Her partner for life.

"I am happy simply having you near," she said softly.

His arms wrapped about her as his lips touched her forehead. "Even if I m the fiend who kidnapped you?"

She chuckled as she remembered the night he had swept her from the bar. Who could have known her entire life would be changed forever?

"Especially since you're the fiend who kidnapped me. If not for you I might still be hiding within myself, completely alone in the world. Or worse, 1 might be the captive of Salvatore."

His arms tightened with annoyance. "Salvatore."

Pulling back, she met his narrowed gaze. "Did you mean what you said? Will you negotiate with the Weres?"

The dark eyes smoldered, but he gave a firm nod of his head. "I always keep my word, angel. I will go before the Commission as I promised. At least I will when they finally grant me an audience."

She lifted her hand to his chest. "Thank you."

"I can afford to be generous." His gaze lowered to the gaping neckline of her robe. "I have what I want."

"You are a very wise leader," she murmured, a ready heat beginning to flow through her body.

"Oh, very wise." Stepping back, he reached for the belt of her robe. "Now I believe it is time that I opened my own Christmas present."

"But I didn't get you anything," she teased as he easily pushed aside the offending robe.

His head lowered and he whispered against her lips. "My dear angel, you have given me everything."