Page 144 of Sage Haven
“Wildflower,” I murmured.
Her pulse jumped. I felt it against my fingertips. Fast. Desperate.
I continued, “There’s only desire in my eyes for you.”
She shuddered. “I don’t understand,” she whispered.
I leaned in, brushing my breath against her lips. “What don’t you understand?” My voice was soft. Almost teasing.
“I didn’t think you’d want me after… everything. I thought you would see me differently.” The words were raw. The truth behind them brutal. I traced my thumb along her lower lip. Slow. Deliberate.
“You fought to survive when no one came for you,” I whispered. “That’s what I see when I look at you.”
She tried to look away.
I didn’t let her.
I wanted her to feel it.
To believe it.
“I don’t pity you,” I said. “I admire you.”
Her breath broke on a quiet sob. But she didn’t move away.
I gave her time. And when I was sure she wouldn’t run, I closed the space between us completely.
My lips found hers. Slow. Certain. Devastating.
The kiss was gentle at first—testing, tasting.
But it didn’t stay gentle.
Couldn’t.
Because I was hungry for her.
Starving.
She melted into me.
Her hands gripping my arms like she needed something to hold onto. And I gave it to her. I gave her me.
The kiss deepened.
Her lips parting beneath mine, letting me in.
My hands slid down her sides, gripping her waist, pulling her flush against me.
Her body was soft, warm.
Perfect.
She gasped into my mouth when I lifted her easily, carrying her to the bed. Her laughter was soft, breathless.
And fuck.
That sound undid me.
