Book 2: Yes

Eleni

Despite how tired he seemed a moment ago, Dante comes alive when I kiss him. He grips my hips like the last anchor in a storm, and I undulate against him like the waves he’s trying to hold on through. I don’t know what to do with this warmth in my chest. It’s something more permanent than love, more certain. So I just wrap myself around him, slide my hands into his hair, and try to find a place where everything makes sense to me again.

Dante pulls back. “I’m a little sore tonight. I don’t know if I have the whole routine in me.”

That home-warmth flares.

“Okay,” I say. “I don’t mind.”

He smiles against my lips. “I love you.”

“I love you too.” A giggle bursts from my lips. “Do you want me to…?”

Dante trails his kisses away from my mouth, down my neck. “Only if you need it. I’m happy just to feel you tonight.”

He’s nearly liquid underneath me, languorous and slow. I shake my head. I’ve never seen this side of Dante,