Page 69 of Art of Sin

“I know,” he says mildly. “But that’s the beauty of relationships, isn’t it? No one knows how to do it, and people who say they do are full of shit. We’re all fumbling around in the dark walking into walls. On good days, we find each other and hold on.”

My palm lifts to my chest, pressing against the sudden, searing heat there. The corners of my eyes sting. I’ve cried more in the last twenty-four hours than I have in years.

At last, I dare to glance at Gideon, to meet his sharp, clear gaze. “Is that what we’re doing?” I ask.

He spreads his palms, shrugging. “Considering that if Nate hadn’t said no to your request for his pants and keys, you would’ve gone out the window and I might have never seen you again… I’d say so. You’re still sitting here, aren’t you? It’s called communication and compromise, and you’re doing it even though you don’t want to.”

I can’t smother my smile. “You’re such an ass.”

“An incredibly intelligent, insightful ass, thank you.”

My sigh carries away the deepest ache inside me, soothes the fear of losing this man. I’m selfish. Irresponsible. I should adhere to my original plan. Get out of the city. Lure the threat away from Nate.

From Gideon.

Staying means putting them both in harm’s way.

I should go.

“Is that a yes? You’ll stay?”

I’m not ready to say goodbye. Not yet. If my life is on borrowed time, I want to live the remainder with him.

“Yes—”

His mouth covers mine as he guides me onto my back. My T-shirt is jacked to my neck, hands roaming, feeling, marking as my mouth is sipped, savored, swallowed. Unlike last night, this is a slow devouring that leaves more than my body aching. My mind and heart throb too, wanting more.

More.

Molten, mahogany eyes find mine. “Mon bijou, don’t leave me.”

Though it tears open a wound inside me, I tell him the truth.

“I’m not sure I can.”

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