Chapter 47

Lyra’s POV

I couldn’t help but notice the gentle rise and firmness pressed against the fabric of his trousers. My pulse quickened as I wondered what could have caused it.

“Come here!” His voice was low but insistent, and he stretched an arm toward me. My feet seemed rooted to the floor for a heartbeat, but curiosity—and something more—drew me forward. I took slow, cautious steps until just a few inches separated us. Tentatively, I slipped my hand into his.

In an instant he yanked me close. The sharp intake of breath caught in my throat as I stumbled, my face pressing flat against his bare chest. Our bodies pressed together; every breath of his warm skin brushed against my cheek and neck. His heart beat beneath my face, pounding in perfect time with my own racing pulse. I could feel the heat of him through the thin fabric at my hip, our lips tantalizingly close.

One of his arms coiled around my waist, firm and possessive, and before I could even registe