He scrubbed his hands over his face and sat up.
I'm just not
ready. Look, why don't I go down and rustle us up something to eat?
He was only inches away. It might as well have been miles, and she felt the sharp sting of rejection.
No, that's all right.
Her voice was cool and calm again.
I really
should get going. I need to pick up Kevin.
Kevin's fine.
Regardless.
She brushed at her hair, tried to smooth it. She wished desperately for something to wrap around her nakedness.
Don't pull that door shut on me now.
He battled back fury, and a much more dangerous passion.
I haven't shut any door. I thought that is, I assumed you wanted me to stay. Since you don't, I'll
Of course I want you to stay. Damn it, Megan.
He whirled on her, and wasn't
surprised when she jerked back.
I need a bloody minute. I could eat you alive, I want you so much.
In defense, she crossed an arm over her breasts.
I don't understand you.
Damn right you don't understand me. You'd run like hell if you did.
He fought for
control, gained a slippery hold.
We'll be fine, Meg, if you wait until I pull myself together.
What are you talking about?
Gripped by frustration, he grabbed her hand, pressed it against his, palm to palm.
I've got big hands, Megan. Got them from my father. I know the right way to use them and the wrong way.
There was a glint in his eyes, like the honed e.g. of a sword. It should have frightened her, but it only excited.
You're afraid of me,
she said quietly.
Afraid
you'll hurt me.
I won't hurt you.
He dropped his hand, left it fisted on the bed.
No, you won't.
She lifted a hand to touch his cheek. His jaw was tight, urging her fingers to stroke and soothe. There was a power here, she realized, a power she'd been unaware of possessing. She wondered what they could make between them if she set it free.
You want me.
Feeling reckless, she edged closer, until her mouth slid over his.
You want to touch me.
She lifted his fisted hand to her breast, her heart pounding like a drum as his fingers opened, cupped.
And for me to touch you.
Her hands
stroked down his chest, felt the quiver of his stomach muscles. So much strength, she thought, so ruthlessly chained. What would it be bice if those links snapped free?
She wanted to know.
Make love with me now, Nathaniel.
Eyes half-closed, she linked her arms around his neck, pressed her eager body to bis.
Show me how much you want me.
He held himself in check, concentrating on the flavor of her mouth. It would be enough, he told himself, to make her float again.
But she had learned quickly. When he sought to soothe, she enticed. Where he tried to gentle, she enraged.