Chapter 13. Taking Her Shopping: pt. 1

Lucien carried her to her bedroom like something sacred. No rush. Just the soft thud of his shoes against her floor and the quiet way she held onto his neck like she didn’t quite want to let go. The door swung open, and he laid her down gently, like he’d done it a thousand times in his mind.

Anna lay there and watched as his tattoo came into view when he stepped back, starting to undo the buttons of his shirt. She sat up on the bed, and when he looked up, she was already standing, eyes dark with something braver than fear. He smiled softly.

She walked toward him, that shy but determined little sway in her hips. She went on her tiptoes to reach his lips, but first, she kissed his chin. Then his lips.

Her kiss was soft, slow, with a smile tugging at the corners of her mouth like she was letting herself enjoy it for once. Then she pushed him gently back onto the