Aldric knew what she wanted without her saying it, and by the heavens, he wanted the same. His Adam's apple bobbed as he savored the brush of her lips against his throat. This was the woman he loved.
But like cold water splashing across his face, the truth struck him.
His hands gripped her shoulders, halting her, gentle but unyielding. "You said we were over," he said quietly.
"I know what I said," she murmured, eyes glinting as they met his. "But right now… I want you."
His jaw tightened. His restraint was legendary. He didn't move. Didn't speak. He stood there, carved from stone, fighting the part of himself that wanted to seize her and never let go. He should demand her heart, not just her touch.
It was hard. His restraint was hanging on thin threads, looking into her eyes. And then…
She rose to her tiptoes, lips grazing the line of his jaw, just shy of his mouth. Close enough to make him burn. "You can put it in… just a little," she whispered in his ear.
