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Alex sighs, crossing his arms over his chest as he tips his head to the side. “How was Clara? Any issues?”

“The angel passed out about five minutes after you left.” He stands, finishing the rest of his drink before placing the empty glass on the side table with a thud. Stepping toward Alex, he clasps his shoulder. “If you’ll excuse me. I have someone waiting on me.” He regards me and winks before passing us.

Leaving us alone.

A chill skates over my warm skin, my body feeling on edge.

We’ve been alone before.

All the time, in fact.

For goodness’ sake, we’ve been sharing a bed while we’ve been here.

But why does it suddenly feel different between us?

I can’t quite explain it.

It’s not something I’ve ever felt with a man before, but with Alex… I want more.

And if I’m honest…that scares me.

Alex rubs the back of his neck, peering over at the stairs. “I’m going to check on Clara. I’ll be down in a moment.” He regards me, his eyes suddenly darker than they were a minute ago, and it takes me a few seconds to look away.

“Of course.” I hug myself tighter over my ribs, trying to get a grip on myself. Maybe I just need some air. I step away, heading for the balcony, and the moment I step outside, I let out a breath I didn’t realize I was holding in.

I wrap my fingers around the banister, staring straight ahead. The moon hangs high above, illuminating the waves that crash along the cliffside. I inhale the salty air, trying to calm my mind.

But it’s useless.

Because all I can think about is kissing Alex.

Or rather, Alex kissing me.

I wonder what he might taste like.

How it would feel.

Would he be gentle?

Rough?

Would I want more than just a kiss?

That thought makes my eyes widen, and my head shake.

I rub my temple, my breath quickening. “What is wrong with me?”

“Not a single thing.”

I let out a gasp, slapping my hand to my chest as Alex approaches my side. Chuckling nervously, I say, “I didn’t hear you come out here.”

He grips the railing, his index finger tapping repeatedly against the stone. “There’s something on your mind,” he states, not looking at me, but at the water. “You’ve been quiet all night. More so than usual.” His eyes find mine, waiting. “If I crossed a line by kissing your hand, I apologize—”

“No,” I blurt out, my hand reaching out to cover his. My eyes widen the moment I realize what I did. I know he can feel the tremble washing through me, but I don’t move it. I keep it firmly planted on top of his, swallowing down the ball of nerves in my throat. “I…” I roll in my bottom lip and look down, my face scrunching in concentration when Alex’s two fingers slip beneath my chin, raising my face until our eyes meet.

“Talk to me,” he says. “You can trust me.”

I know I can, I want to say.