Page 24 of The Rancher's Jilted Bride

It's all because of Him that taking risks has ceased to be terrifying.

All because of Him that life became a joy.

And that's why, oh, that's why—-

When my boss's lips gently press against mine, that's when I finally hear the answer to my question.

He's the one for me.

Tears burn my eyes even as I find myself wrapping my arms around my boss's neck.

Just one kiss then...

Just one kiss,I promise myself.

And at that time, I really believed wecouldandwouldstop with one kiss.

But I was wrong, of course.

The moment my boss feels my arms tighten around his neck, it's as if he's been restraining himself all this time, and my response unwittingly works like a key that unlocks the chains that have been holding him back.

The kiss deepens all at once, and I can only gasp as his tongue thrusts deep into my mouth.

Hale.

My nails dig deep into his back as he explores every inch of my mouth with bold strokes of his tongue.

Hale.

My Hale.

A shudder rocks his imposing frame just as he rasps out against my lips,"Yes."

His fingers drive through the locks of my hair as he pulls my head back, and I find myself staring up at him.

"Say it again,"he growls.

And that's when I realize I've been speaking out loud without meaning to.

"Say it, baby."

My knees knock against each other at the endearment.

"Hale," I whisper. "You'remyHale—-"

Emotions I'm too innocent and inexperienced to name blaze from his silvery gaze.

It's my only warning before he's once again crushing my mouth under his.

But this time around, it's not just that.

Because his hands are suddenly cupping the cheeks of my bottom, andaaaaah...

Embarrassment and excitement ripple through me at the way he squeezes my flesh, but I don't even have a second to comprehend what's happening.

Not when he's suddenly propped me up on the reception counter, and it just happens to be the perfect height for him to be at eye-level with my most secret place.

Desire turns my mind into mush as he parts my legs open.

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