Page 64 of Hothead

“Yes,” she breathed. Heart hammering.

Suddenly, his mouth was on her. Kissing the hell out of her. Scrambling her senses. A kiss so good, it had her questioning everything.

What’s a little pain if it means getting to kiss this man every day?

Reluctantly, she pulled back, letting her eyes roam his face. “Don’t hurt me.”

“Never,” he boomed, “I swear, angel. Your heart is safe with me.”

This time, she was the one to capture his lips. Hoping to find the answer on the tip of his tongue, she took her time tasting him. Not stopping as her spine tingled and his hoarse groan vibrated down her throat.

Her mind raced quicker than her pulse. Could she really do this?

You were considering it a week ago. Before you even knew he loved you.

She needed to hear that. Be reminded that seven days ago she was all in. After last night, she was no longer questioning his intentions. She needed to stop making excuses. Face her fear. And follow her heart.

Coming up for air once again, she let her forehead drop against his. “Let’s do this. Let’s move in together.”

She didn’t need to look to know that he was smiling. The light laugh tickling her lips was enough. He was yet to answer, though, he was too busy burying his hands under her arms. A moment later, she was off the floor and being spun around by strong arms.

Whistles and hoots from other diners erupted around them. Her own giggle even escaped as happiness bloomed in her belly. For the first time in her life, she was going to run toward something, instead of away. And she knew deep down to her soul that Luke was worth it. He was worth the risk.

EPILOGUE

Two weeks later

Bella stared at thepink troll doll sitting on Luke’s living room shelf. It looked so wrong. His place was all classy and sleek.Shewas not classyorsleek. And nor were her things.

Clearly.

Since she’d moved in, Luke had insisted Bella put her belongings out on display. Which she did. The only problem was her belongings consisted mostly of random, garish trinkets she’d picked up on her travels. And they so did not go with his decor. Which she told him. Again and again. But did he care? Nope.

“Angel.” Luke sighed, appearing from the kitchen. “Not this again.”

Bella whipped around to face him, arms still crossed, frown still firmly in place. “It just looks silly.”

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