Dax grins. “Don’t be sorry. That was amazing. This is one area where I love you taking control.”
My hand trembles, lowering it from my face. “Really?”
He leans in and pecks my lips. “Really.”
“Good. Because I like how much I wanted to kiss you. I’ve never had this feeling before. It was overpowering, and I just had to do it.”
Dax wiggles his eyebrows. “I’m that irresistible, huh?”
I laugh and nudge his arm. “Oh, stop.”
Dax runs a finger down my cheek. “I love how much you blush.”
I lower my head with a muted gasp. “Ah, I hate that. I’m supposed to have more confidence than letting stupid nerves get to me.”
Dax moves his finger below my chin, gently lifting my head. “Who said? Your mother?”
My heart sinks as I stare into his eyes.
“Remember when you felt free?” he says softly. “Where’d that happy girl go?”
I breathe out, feeling my shoulders relax as a hint of a smile returns to my face.
Dax’s hand leaves my chin, and he smiles back at me. “There she is.”
I take his hand in mine. “Thank you.”
Dax intertwines our fingers, and when the moonlight highlights his grease-stained nails, he sighs and releases my hand.
“But this can’t happen.”
My hand stays raised, hoping to touch his again. “What can’t?”
He motions between us. “Us. It’s never going to happen.”
I choke. “Excuse me?”
“We can’t be together.” He shifts away from me. “It’s not safe for you.”
“I can hold my own.”
His gaze is intensely serious. “Did I not explain the dangers of bringing a girl into my world?”
I clutch my bracelet and gulp.
He grunts and shakes his head. “I didn’t mean to scare you. Look, you’re gorgeous, but that’s not enough to risk you getting hurt.”
“Do you expect me to walk away while you continue to get hurt? I’m not an idiot, Dax. I know those bruises came from the guys at the motorcycle club.”
“Exactly why you shouldn’t get mixed up with me. After seeing what my mom went through, I won’t do it. I should’ve just returned your bracelet and rode away.”
I grab his shirt front. “But you didn’t, and now I’m not willing to give you up.”
He sighs. “Sassy.”
“You didn’t just return my bracelet because you think I’m pretty. Admit it.”
His Adam’s apple bobs.
