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“You have no idea.”

The smile she gives me right then is warm.

Inviting.

Dangerous.

It's the kind of smile that makes a man start imagining things.

Things he probably shouldn't.

Things involving Sunday mornings and shared coffee and forever.

The terrifying part?

I don't hate those thoughts.

Not one bit.

“Need help, Tough Guy?”

Did she just give me a nickname?

I grin because I like that.

She’s so soft and sweet, but she needs someone tough in her corner.

I can do that.

I can be her Tough Guy.

“Nah. I got this,” I reply.

Then I pull.

Mary gasps as I undress her, quickly but carefully.

Like an eager kid unwrapping a present.

And she certainly is that.

Best damn gift I’ve ever received.

I climb on the bed, hovering over her, and I moan as I press my forehead against hers.

She’s breathing heavier now.

So am I.

I open my eyes and press our mouths together.

We’re so close now.

Close enough that nothing else exists.

Her body is soft and warm.

I lift my head and our gazes lock.