"We should go home and get that basket ready for our picnic." He says.
I smile back and let him lead the way. Back home – I like saying that – we work in silent companionship as we fill the basket with goodies. I wasn't completely honest when I said I hadn't been out in nature. It's just that the memories hurt too much.
Papa would take us on picnics when I was little, and I would dance and play outdoors. I think that's why I like Hunter's Peakso much. They should be happy memories, but instead, they are a reminder of what I lost.
"Hey, why are you so sad all of a sudden?"
"Just remembering my parents."
He puts his hands on my shoulders, and I look up at him.
"They are so proud of you right now. You survived a terrible situation and now you're free."
"I am free, aren't I?"
"Yes, you are, princess."
Brock takes me to his favorite spot in the mountains, and we chat while sharing wine, cheese, and some fruit. He seems to enjoy feeding me, so I let him. Every one of his touches does something to my body, and I'm a little embarrassed by how much I want him.
Desire is something I'd never thought I'd get to experience, and now I want to revel in it. I love how my body responds to him, and I begin to wish he weren't such a gentleman.
I find myself with my head on his lap as he tells me stories of his work as a field doctor for the search and rescue group here on the mountain. I'm in awe not only by how much he loves his work, but also by how it lights him up when he speaks about it.
The decision is made in my mind without me even realizing I’ve made it.
"Brock, kiss me."
He seems taken aback by my words, but I encourage him by squeezing his hand and letting him see the desire in my eyes. I make a second decision and get up, sitting on his lap and putting my arms around his neck.
"I've never felt the things your kisses make me feel before. I want to experience more of those sensations."
"You don't know what you're asking, princess."
"Maybe not, but I'm starting to trust you, Brock."
He puts his forehead against mine and I swear he lets out a growl. His hot breath sears my skin, and for a moment, I wish we were naked in each other's arms. I’m mad for getting ahead of myself and decide to enjoy this wonderful moment.
After the longest time, he finally touches his lips to mine, and there's a zap of electricity the moment it happens. We both seem startled by it, but it doesn't stop us from delving deep into each other's mouths. Our tongues frolic together, and I can feel him harden beneath me.
Heat travels through my body, and the most vulnerable part pulsates in response to this passionate exchange. I hear noises around me, and after a moment, I realize it's me, whimpering, at his expert kissing.
I am pretty much breathless when he pulls away. His breathing also seems to be affected, and I feel a little proud of myself that our kiss did that to him.
"We should stop, Savannah."
"I want you, Brock."
"I want you too, princess, but I'm not making love to you for the first time out in the wilderness. Besides, you're a virgin."
"How did you know?"
"It's a feeling I had, and I want to make things special for you."
"Just being in your arms makes me feel special, Brock."
"You are an amazing woman, Savannah, and you deserve to be treated like the princess you are."
I put my hand on his face, feeling his soft beard against my palm, and I swear if this were a cartoon, I'd have hearts in my eyes. This man is so amazingly sweet and caring, and I wonder what I did to deserve him.