Page 38 of Anarchy Missing

CHAPTER THIRTEEN - LULU

He stares at me. I barely recognize him. He’s so much older, broader, more intent. One gloved hand flies to my throat, the other covers my mouth as he pushes me back into the shadows of the thick stone columns that hold the arch over our heads. We round the corner, backing me into the secret spot I found for us so many years ago at the end of that one perfect night.

I’m frightened for a moment. Caught up in the accusations against him. In the law, and my duty, and my job.

But the heat of his hands and the urgency in his push are enough to keep me calm. Make me want him. Render me powerless to refuse him.

Did I ever doubt that I’d give in?

“Where did you go?” he asks, once we’re hidden from view, the only prying eyes those of the iconic statue set into the stone wall.

“Away,” I say simply.

“You’re back now?” he asks. Eyes almost pleading.

“I’m back now.”

He sits on the stone bench and it’s like… it’s like we’re kids again. At the end of that one night at the ball. But this time we are deliberate. Older. More experienced, but also more cynical.

My eyes never leave his as I hike up my dress, straddle his thighs, and nestle myself into his lap.

He hugs me then. Wraps his arms completely around my waist, pulling me in so close, I almost gasp for air.