Page 80 of Too Hot

She dropped them in his palm after unlocking the doors. Rafe deposited his turn-outs in the back seat before getting in the driver’s side. Within fifteen minutes, they were at his home. Thank goodness, too, because Brianna kept clearing her throat.

“Your turn-outs smell as bad as my purse.”

“I’ll put them both in the garage to air out.”

Brianna looked around. “I thought you were taking me home.”

“I am.” He parked her car in the driveway, then helped her out of the vehicle and into the house. In his mind and heart, this was her home now. They belonged together. Once in the family room, he gathered her into his arms and sat on the sofa with her in his lap.

Rafe took a deep breath. “I was so scared for you.” He wasn’t going to hide his emotions.

“I’m sorry.” She laid her head on his shoulder and relaxed in his embrace. “I couldn’t leave Andy in there.”

“I know you talked with the chief as the paramedics checked you out. What did you tell him?”

“I didn’t know much. Mainly, I told him about seeing the guy you were chasing and hearing a loud bang before the fire started.”

“Damn arsonist,” he muttered.

“Is that who he is?”

“I can’t say for sure, but it’s very suspicious. The chief will keep everyone out until we can investigate.”

“But you said he’d get the others’ belongings?”

He kissed her forehead. “He will, but they’ll do it through the windows if need be. Everyone will be safe.”

“Why not just walk in and get it?”

“In order to prove arson, we need to preserve the scene until the investigation is done.”

“Why the school?”

“I can’t explain that. I don’t know why anyone would want to hurt kids. Do you know of any threats against the school?” It could have been a disgruntled parent, but it wasn’t usual to see an arsonist escalate.

“Not that I know of. The principal would know for sure.” She cuddled closer to him.

“What were you thinking? You’re afraid of flames.”

“I wasn’t thinking. Well, that’s not true.” Her smile was small. “You’ve taught me how, and with the fire cupping, you showed me I don’t need to be afraid. I listened and paid attention.”

“But still.” He tightened his arms around her. “Smoke inhalation kills faster than fire.”

“As you’ve told me before, and I was as careful as I could be. Trust me, I wasn’t about to let Andy or myself die. I have too much to live for.” She lifted her arm, and her palm cupped his cheek. “I love you.”

A jolt shot through his body. “You…love me?” Was he hearing her correctly?

“Yes.” She brushed her lips over his. “I love you.”

“I never expected…” He paused to catch his breath. “I love you too. When I heard you ran back into the fire, I was out of my mind with worry.”

“Oh, honey. Don’t get me wrong. I was scared to death. But during our talks, you talked to me about how fire burns, and I knew what to look for. Unfortunately, it spread before Andy and I could get back out the door. So we climbed out the window.”

“You’re perfect.” He captured her lips with his. “I love you so much. I should have told you before now.”

“We aren’t on a timetable, and we’ve only been together a few months. I didn’t expect it to happen, but today, standing in my classroom with Andy and the fire trying to break in, I knew I couldn’t leave you. You are a sweet, lovable gentleman and the perfect Dom for me.”

Damn, this woman could unman him with simple words. “Enough talk.” He put one arm under her legs and the other across her back as he stood. “Time for us.” He strode to his bedroom.

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