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“Thank you, Steve. You were kind enough to take me out. I wanted to make it special for both of us.”
“It was special, Lillian. I haven’t enjoyed an evening this much in ages.” He reached for her hand and covered it with his palm.
Her gaze flitted from their entwined fingers to his face. She smiled without withdrawing her hand.
“I’m glad we both had a good time. Now, we have to call it a night. Tomorrow is a regular work day. My boss and his draconian delegate, the wonderfully efficient Heidi, wouldn’t tolerate tardiness.” She burst out laughing.
“I thought she was your friend.”
“She is to a certain extent. Rules are rules for Heidi.”
“Don’t I know it.”
Understanding his dismissal, he let go of her hand and stood. She wasn’t ready for more on their first date. He carried the plates to the sink, and she placed the rest of the cake in a container. “Take it home for breakfast.”
He was used to her bringing boxes of food for him and wouldn’t say no. “Thank you.”
She walked him to the door.
“Goodnight, Lillian.” He opened the door and took a step out, hating to see the delightful evening end too early before...
“Goodnight, Steve.”
Spinning toward her, he stepped back inside, and pulled her into his arms. “Why have you been hiding for so long?” Frustration stiffened his voice.
Panic swept over her face. “You weren’t ready, and I wasn’t brave enough.”
“And now?” He wanted to kiss her, but he wanted her willing and happy.
“I don’t know.” He felt her shivering.
His head lowered, and his lips brushed hers for a mere second. He raised his eyes, seeking permission to continue. A smile trembled on her mouth. He caught her parting lips between his and kissed her ever so slowly, a gentle and delicious getting to know you kiss.
She closed her eyes and sagged against him, her arms linking behind his neck.
A sigh of relief escaped him. He knew she wanted him, wanted his kiss. He licked her lips and the inside of her jaw, meeting her tongue in a warm waltz, tasting chocolate and Bailey in her mouth. Pressing her against him, he deepened his kiss like a starving man in need of sustenance. When she moaned and inhaled, he released her mouth and covered her face and throat with a trail of kisses.
“Don’t ever hide again. Don’t run away from me.”
“You’re the one running away to an island.”
Sorrow and bitter regret coiled within him. He cradled her face between his hands. “I don’t know anymore. For the first time in my life, I’m confused.”
“Please, go.”
He kissed her again, and then pulled back. “I’ll pick you up tomorrow at six.”
He opened the door and strode to his car, knowing that if he stayed for another kiss, he wouldn’t leave her tonight.
