Page 41 of Maverick

Chapter Six

Maverick wrapped his arms around her slender frame and buried his nose in her hair, inhaling the sweet aroma of her shampoo. He could feel the tension in her body, the trembling that betrayed her nerves.

“Parker, relax. I’ll never do anything you don’t want me to do.”

“I know that,” she replied, her voice shaky.

He sat up and faced her, the setting sun from the nearby window casting a soft glow on their faces. “I hope you do.”

Her eyes met his, full of trust and vulnerability. “I trust you, Maverick.”

A small smile spread across his lips as he leaned in to kiss her. The touch of their lips ignited a fire within him, and he couldn’t help but moan against hers as their passion intensified. “I want you so much, Parker.” He pressed his lips to hers again before pushing her back onto the sofa, and he covered her body with his.

He lifted his lips and gazed into her eyes.

“Am I taking you home tonight?” Maverick asked, his voice a soft whisper filled with anticipation. He held his breath, his eyes searching hers for the answer. Parker met his gaze and slowly shook her head.

“No.”

A grin spread across his face as he lowered his head, pressing his lips gently to hers. The kiss lingered, then he slid his lips softly across her cheek and down along the curve of her neck.

“You have a spare bedroom, right?”

Maverick chuckled, placing his forehead on her shoulder. Her scent enveloped him, a delicate mix of lavender and something uniquely Parker.

“You’re killing me,” he murmured.

Parker laughed, a sound that sent shivers down his spine. “I’m teasing you.”

He lifted his head to look at her, eyes dark with a mixture of amusement and desire. “You can tease me all you like, but not about that.” A heavy sigh escaped his lips. “I’ll take you home if that’s what you want.”

“It’s not. I want to stay with you…” Her voice trailed off.

“But?” he prompted gently.

“I just want you to be patient with me,” she whispered.

“Darlin’, I’ve been nothing but patient with you,” he replied softly, brushing a stray lock of hair from her face.

He got up from the sofa, helped her to her feet, lifted her, and carried her to his bedroom. He kicked the door shut behind them and they laughed when Blue howled.

****

Parker’s nerves were going into overdrive as Maverick carefully brushed her hair from her face, after placing her on the bed, his eyes locking onto hers. He leaned in, whispering softly, “Are you sure about this?”

Parker nodded hesitantly, feeling the heat rise within her. Maverick’s hand slowly caressed her face, trailing down her neck and collarbone, awakening goosebumps along her skin. He dipped his head, planting tender kisses on her exposed throat. Each one sent heated shivers coursing through her body.

As the heat between them intensified, Maverick moved to remove Parker’s blouse. Exposed and vulnerable before him, she felt no shame—only trust. His fingertips traced intricate patterns on her quivering skin, dancing delicately around the curve of her breasts above her bra.

“You’re so beautiful,” he murmured, his voice heavy with desire. Parker blushed in response, entranced by the longing in his eyes.

He kissed her passionately, his lips fervently exploring hers as his hand deftly slid to the snap of her jeans. With a smooth motion, he unzipped them and slipped his hand inside, fingers tracing the elastic band of her panties. She held her breath in anticipation.

“Relax,” he whispered softly against her lips.

“I’m trying.”

“Just feel, baby,” he coaxed gently.