Page 216 of The Life of Anna-Tenth Anniversary Edition: Act 2

She ran her hand over his rough cheek. “I’m glad you stayed with me.”

“I have to say, I slept very well.”

“Me, too.”

“How are you feeling?”

Anna thought for a minute. She wiggled a little. “Better.” She had completely healed while she slept.

He moved closer and kissed her softly. “I’m glad you’re feeling better.”

She felt his erection brush her thigh and bit her lip, looking up into his eyes.

“Sorry. I’m a guy.” He shrugged sheepishly. “It happens.”

Anna smiled. “I know.” She stopped herself from offering to help. It just didn’t seem appropriate.

He kissed her cheek and then stood. “Bathroom.” She watched his back muscles ripple as he stretched while walking across the room.

She stood and walked to the floor-to-ceiling window that looked over the city and the river. It was nice being here. Even with what happened last night, she still felt safe. And every day, she felt more like Katrina and less like Anna. Tonight she would debut as Katrina Engel, the dancer.

Butterflies invaded her stomach as she thought about the upcoming performance: The Firebird. The part was so demanding—in a good way—and Anna was honored that Vincent had entrusted it with her. She loved dancing as the Firebird. It was fun, flittering about the stage like a bird to the music of Stravinsky. Hugo was dancing tonight, too, and she was thankful he would be backstage with her.

She felt his warmth before he put his arms around her. “This is an incredible view,” he murmured, kissing her cheek.

“It is. I like seeing it in the mornings. It reminds me—‍” She paused. “It reminds me that I’m not in California. That I’m safe.”

He gave her a little squeeze. “I’m very glad for both of those things.”

She smiled and they stood together, watching the boats in the river.

After a few minutes, he spoke again, his voice low. “Do you want to come to my place tonight?”

Tingles shot through her body at his question. “Yes,” she whispered. “If you want me to.”

“I do.”

Her nipples hardened at the thought of him touching her, kissing her everywhere, and making love to her. She closed her eyes and her breaths came in little bursts.

His hands lifted to her upper arms and he kissed her shoulder. “I should get home so I can get ready for the day.”

“But—‍”

“Katrina, I know what you want and I want it too. But I don’t want to just throw you down on your bed and fuck you.” He brushed her hair away from her face. “If I stay, I will. I want to make love to you tonight, slowly, and then fall asleep holding you close.”

Anna nodded, understanding. She gave him a tentative smile. “You’re such a different type of man,” she whispered, moving to her toes and kissing him gently on the lips.

He smiled boyishly. “I try.”

“You succeed.”

Anna walked him to the door. “I’ll see you in a little while,” he said after kissing her goodbye.

After Hugo left, Anna went into the kitchen and ate breakfast. Aaron came out a few minutes later and poured a bowl of cereal. “So, did you?”

“Did I what?”

“Did you guys fuck?”

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