Page 68 of Falling for the Grinchy Bad Boy

“Joy, I want you,” I said, coming out rough and low.

“I know,” she whispered, setting down the wine glass without taking a sip. “Me too.”

And then she was in my arms, warm and soft and exactly where she belonged. Our mouths found each other with desperate hunger.

Her hands fisted in my shirt, pulling me closer as I backed her against the kitchen counter.

“Are you sure?” I asked against her lips, even though stopping now might actually kill me.

“I’m sure,” she breathed, her hands already working at the buttons of my shirt. “I’m so sure, Cooper.”

If Joy wanted this, wanted me, then maybe it was okay to want her back. Maybe it was okay to stop protecting myself from something that felt this right.

I lifted her onto the counter, stepping between her legs and kissing her with everything I had. Her response was immediate and enthusiastic. Her body arched against mine as her hands explored my chest and shoulders.

“Bedroom,” she gasped against my mouth. “Please tell me you have a bedroom.”

I laughed. “I have a bedroom. And it’s much more comfortable than this kitchen counter. Or the breakroom table.”

“Then take me there,” she said, wrapping her legs around my waist.

I carried her down the hallway. Her mouth on my neck sent fire through my veins. I promised myself I was going to take my time tonight.