Page 87 of Knot What I Expected

She freezes.

So do I.

Fuck.

Every time I touch her, this happens.

That strange jolt.

Not electricity exactly.

Something deeper.

Monster goes utterly still.

Gabriella slowly looks down at my hand. I loosen my grip immediately, but I don't let her go.

“Don't cut his playtime short because you're mad at me, Honey Girl.”

Her gaze snaps to mine.

Yeah, you’re my Honey Girl.

I said it. And fuck if I’m taking it back.

We’re standing close now. Way too fucking close for a male who has spent weeks telling himself this woman isn't his.

Close enough that I can see her pulse fluttering wildly at the base of her throat.

Close enough to notice the tiny golden flecks inside those amber eyes.

Close enough that her scent fills every fucking breath.

Woodsmoke.

September mornings.

Female.

Gabby.

Mine.

And beneath it, that other thing.

Hidden.

Ancient.

Monster pushes closer.

Ours.

My thumb moves before I realize what I’m doing. One slow stroke against the inside of her arm.

Her breath catches.

Fuck.