Page 84 of Fang Fatale

Like carrying a grown woman through the woods while people tried to kill both of us was simply the most efficient solution available.

My heart chooses that exact moment to become profoundly uncooperative.

“I heard you wouldn't let anyone else touch me.”

He looks away.

“I didn't trust anyone else.”

Something inside me melts into an embarrassing little puddle.

I finish wrapping the bandage.

Without thinking, I smooth the loose edge against his skin.

My fingers drift to his wrist.

Warm.

Steady.

His pulse beats just a little faster than before.

Neither of us moves.

Not for one impossible second.

Then he looks up.

Our eyes meet.

It's no longer about protection.

Or obligation.

Or contracts.

It's possibility.

“You keep ruining my first impression of you,” I blurt.

His grin appears slowly.

“That so?”

“First you braid my hair.”

“Allegedly.”

“Then you carry me through the woods.”

“Also allegedly.”

“Now you're pretending none of it was a big deal.”

His smile softens.

“That part isn't pretending.”