Page 427 of Ruthless Court

“Safety first.”

“You sound like a campus brochure.”

“I’m trying to have a serious conversation.”

“I’m listening.”

I trace my thumb along his cheek.

“I don’t want to stop tonight.”

Kane goes very still.

“Hannah.”

“I know.”

“No, I need to ask.”

His voice drops.

“Are you sure?”

My heart pounds.

Not from fear.

Not anymore.

“I’m sure.”

“If you change your mind⁠—”

“I’ll tell you.”

“And I stop.”

“I know.”

His eyes soften.

“Okay.”

I kiss him.

This time there is no line waiting ahead of us.

No arbitrary place where I need to slam on the brakes because being wanted feels dangerous.

There is only Kane.

My hands in his hair.

His arms around me.

The quiet words he keeps asking.

Still okay?