Page 129 of Say My Name

“You’re trying to hurry.”

“I’m naked. You’re wearing a suit. The imbalance feels significant.”

His mouth curves. “You’re deflecting.”

“I’m practical.”

“You’re scared.”

The word lands with enough force to make my breath catch. The smile leaves my face.

He brings my hand to his mouth and kisses the center of my palm.

“So am I,” he says.

I stare at him. “You don’t look scared.”

“I’ve had more practice hiding it.”

“Of me?”

“Of how much I want from you.”

He places my hand on his chest. His heart pounds beneath my palm, a frantic, unsteady rhythm that is nothing like his usual composure. It’s a confession without words.

Dominic Rowe is afraid.

His fear matters. I’m not the only one risking something tonight.

I unbutton his shirt while he watches me. He lets me push it from his shoulders, then opens his belt and removes the rest himself. When he stands naked in front of me, my gaze moves over the body I know so well and still haven’t learned how to look at without wanting.

He cups the back of my neck and kisses me again.

The kiss deepens as he lowers us onto the mattress. He turns onto his side, bringing me with him until we’re facing each other.

One arm slides beneath my neck. His other hand rests at my waist, warm and steady, without trying to direct me.

“Stay with me,” he says.

“I’m here.”

“All of you.”

The words expose me and somehow make it easier to breathe. I touch his face and kiss him again, slower this time.

His hand moves over my ribs, cups my breast, then follows the line of my waist. Every touch is unhurried, giving me time to feel it and stay present.

I slide my palm down his chest and stomach. His muscles tighten beneath my fingers.

“You’re still scared,” I whisper.

“Yes.” His forehead rests against mine. “I’m still here too.”

Hearing him admit it makes my own fear feel less like a failure.

I hook one leg over his hip and pull him closer. His cock presses against the inside of my thigh, hot and hard.

Dominic’s eyes search mine. “Are you sure?”