Page 81 of Statler

Eliza raised both hands, cradled Statler’s face, and pulled him close until their lips touched.

They stayed that way for several breaths, mouths barely grazing, neither of them moving.

They simply lingered, gently linked together until…

Statler moaned and pulled his mouth away.

Dammit. Well, that was⁠—

Statler unexpectedly flipped Eliza onto her back and hovered above her, his body quivering in the few places where they touched.

“My turn,” he growled. “You can say no,” he added.

“Yes,” she strangled out instead.

He nodded with satisfaction, then lowered his head and claimed her.

Freaking claimed her.

Fuck. Eliza couldn’t get enough.

His lips were demanding, lush and strong: surrounded by the tantalizing abrasiveness of his beard-scruff which she’d looked upon with fascination all night.

She loved that roughness, and wanted it on her neck, her nipples, between her legs.

But since that couldn’t happen, she’d take what she could get.

Eliza threaded her fingers through Statler’s hair, shutting off her brain and losing herself in his touch.

The kiss was better than any she’d ever experienced.

Statler was by turns, aggressive and gentle.

He’d tease, then ramp up the heat, exploring her mouth with his tongue while holding her in place; letting her know that he could easily take what he wanted from her, while also indicating that she was completely safe in his arms.

It was…almost too much.

Holden had been a good lover, but he’d never made her feel this involved; this…cherished. She’d thought she’d known all there was to know about physical love, but with one kiss, Statler was dispelling that myth.

She was so screwed.

If she’d loved Statler on sight when they first met, she loved him even more, now. This time with her entire body and soul, as they were lit up from within.

Eliza’s hands went from Statler’s hair to his ears, and he groaned, clearly enjoying her touch.

She could sense the heat and hardness of him between her legs and through her jeans, which made Eliza feel…powerful.

Statler was as turned on as she was.

She just knew it.

She vaguely recalled Holden once telling her that all a woman had to do was show a little cleavage, and a man would be ready.

She’d believed him.

But now?

Eliza realized that “ready” was one thing.