Page 7 of My Tempting Mountain Man

"Yes," she breathes, eyes never wavering from mine.

Slowly, reverently, I lower my mouth to hers. Our lips meet softly at first, testing, exploring. Then passion flares white-hot between us, consuming reason. Her arms wrap around my neck, pulling me closer. She tastes sweet and perfect, everything I’ve ever secretly craved.

She gasps softly when I deepen the kiss, fingers tangling in her hair. My body aches to claim her fully, to show her all the passion and longing I've suppressed. But tonight, this—holding her close, tasting her lips, feeling her heartbeat against mine—is enough.

Reluctantly, I break the kiss, resting my forehead against hers, breathing ragged. "We should sleep," I whisper hoarsely, even as my body protests.

She nods slowly, eyes heavy-lidded but content. "Sleep sounds good."

We settle back against the pillows, her body fitting perfectly against mine. I hold her gently, feeling something long buried stir awake deep within me.

Tomorrow will bring its own challenges, its own set of truths and consequences. But for tonight, for this brief, perfect moment, I allow myself the peace of Everly in my arms, quieting the storm within.

5

Everly

I wake slowly, eyelids fluttering open to gentle sunlight filtering through the cabin window. Stretching lazily beneath the warm quilt, I realize I’m alone. My heart stutters momentarily with disappointment. Rolling onto my back, I stare at the ceiling and let last night drift back to me—the softness of Liam’s lips on mine, the heat in his gaze, the intoxicating feel of his strong arms wrapped around me.

My cheeks heat immediately, a blush rising fast. Was it real, or just some vivid dream conjured by my restless imagination? Surely, I couldn’t have been that bold. I've never been brave enough to even flirt openly, let alone kiss someone as commanding and intense as Liam.

Pushing myself upright, I tug my fingers nervously through my messy hair, doubt gnawing at my mind. But my lips still tingle faintly, a tangible reminder that perhaps it wasn’t just fantasy.

Only one way to find out.

Sliding from the bed, I pad quietly toward the door, heart thumping erratically in my chest. I pause at the threshold, taking a calming breath, then step out into the cozy main room of the cabin.

Liam stands at the kitchen counter, his broad back to me, sunlight gilding his dark hair. The aroma of fresh coffee and something savory cooking drifts through the air, making my stomach rumble softly. At my quiet approach, he turns, his storm-gray eyes meeting mine instantly. There's hesitation there, mingled with something softer and warmer.

"Good morning," I say softly, cheeks flushing anew beneath his gaze.

"Morning," he replies gruffly, shifting his weight awkwardly and rubbing at the back of his neck. He looks uncomfortable, clearly struggling with something. "Everly, about last night?—"

My heart leaps into my throat. "Oh. Last night."

"Yeah," he murmurs, eyes flicking away nervously. "I shouldn't have—I crossed a line. I'm sorry."

I exhale slowly, realization blossoming in my chest. So it wasn’t a dream. The kiss, the warmth, the delicious ache—it had all been beautifully real.

"Liam," I whisper gently, stepping closer until I stand just inches away. His gaze snaps back to mine, eyes widening slightly at my boldness. "You didn't cross any line. I wanted you to kiss me. I still want—" My voice breaks off, embarrassment making my cheeks burn hotter.

His jaw tightens, eyes darkening with intensity. "Everly, you don't know what you're saying."

"Maybe I don't," I admit softly, bravely reaching out to rest my fingertips on his chest. His muscles tighten beneath my touch, heart pounding beneath my palm. "But I do know I've never felt this way before. About anyone."

He closes his eyes briefly, breathing deep as if fighting some internal battle. When they open again, his gaze is filled with restraint, and unmistakable longing. "You're young. Innocent. And I'm?—"

"Exactly who I want," I finish firmly, holding his gaze with newfound courage. My body trembles slightly, but I hold steady. "Unless you don't want?—"

"You have no idea how badly I want," he growls softly, voice rough and heated. "But?—"

"But nothing," I interrupt, voice stronger now. My body’s on fire with need. "I'm not afraid of this. I'm not afraid of you."

His chest rises sharply beneath my touch, eyes blazing with desire as he reaches up, gently cupping my face. His thumb brushes tenderly over my bottom lip, sending electric sparks straight through me.

"You're dangerous, Everly," he whispers hoarsely, a hint of surrender in his tone.

"Good," I breathe back, heart racing. "Then I guess we’re even."

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