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But he doesn't move away. Neither do I.

“Damian?”

“Hmm?”

“What are you doing?”

His eyes lift to mine, and for the first time since meeting him, I see something beneath all that arrogance.

Want.

Longing.

And fear.

“Making another mistake.”

Then he kisses me.

And for one heartbeat, I'm too shocked to react.

Then his mouth moves against mine.

Warm.

Firm.

Careful in a way I never expect from him.

And Goddess help me—I kiss him back.

His hand slides behind my neck, gripping me by the low ponytail holding my curls at bay. And mine fists in his shirt, pulling him closer to me.

The golden sparks beneath my skin flare hot and bright.

Damian makes a rough sound against my lips and deepens the kiss, driving his long tongue inside my mouth once, twice, and a third time before he pulls back.

We stare at each other. Both breathing too hard.

His eyes are almost entirely red.

“Still want me out of town?” I whisper.

His jaw clenches.

“Yes.”

Liar.

I smile.

“Well, good luck with that, Mr. Leeds.”

Chapter 7

Damian

Okay.