Page 43 of From the Moment We Met

Lilly saw something flash in his eyes at his statement, another glimpse of the wounded heart laying beneath the playboy facade.

“I’m beginning with an energy assessment, so I’ll be running my hands down your body.”

He quirked his brows at her, offering a smile. “God give me strength in resisting you.”

Lilly remained silent, trying to rein in her emotions before beginning the session. As her hands flowed along his body, she tried not to focus on the muscles rippling under his smooth skin or the intense heat emanating from him.

Within a few minutes, any naughty preoccupations were replaced by thoughts of healing as she cleared each chakra systematically. His breath caught a few times, and by the end of the session, Jacob appeared infinitely more relaxed.

After she was finished, Lilly turned on the stereo and smiled. The song playing was one of her favorites.

Before considering her statement, Lilly blurted, “This song is what love feels like, an all-encompassing adoration. The world is better with that person by your side, and you’d walk through hell to protect them and give up everything just to see them smile.” She blushed, embarrassed she had spoken the words aloud. “You probably think that’s an absurd thought.”

Jacob shook his head, studying her face. “I’d like to believe in a love so powerful I would sacrifice everything, but I’ve never felt that way. Maybe some people aren’t born with that emotion.”

Lilly shrugged, squelching the feeling of disappointment that moved through her body at his words. “Perhaps you haven’t met that person yet, or perhaps you have to take down that wall around your heart. Otherwise, you’ll never know when that person is right in front of you.” Shit, why in the world would I make that statement?

Jacob’s eyes widened, and Lilly stammered out her explanation. “I didn’t mean me, it came out wrong—”

Jacob clasped her hand, a slow smile crossing his features. “I think it came out perfectly.”

Great, now he thinks I’m pining for him and likely planning our damn wedding.

Lilly drew her hand back, offering up an embarrassed chuckle. “What I mean is, I believe there’s hope for everyone, including you. You’ll know it when you feel it. Love can’t be ignored.”

“Have you been in love?”

“I love everyone.”

“Don’t avoid the question. Have you ever felt the emotions described in that song?” His eyes burned into hers, as if they could see straight into her heart.

Lilly shook her head. “I know no one’s ever felt that way about me, but I choose to believe in that kind of love, regardless.” She had said too much, been too intimate. She couldn’t expect a man like Jacob to understand her romanticized viewpoint. He had his pick of lovers and would never need to sacrifice himself for a woman. “I’m babbling.”

She leaned over him to snuff out the candle, gasping when his fingertips danced over her stomach and hip. Her body was on fire, and it took every ounce of courage she had to look at him.

“Have you ever felt butterflies, Lilly?”

“Yes,” Lilly breathed, tilting her cheek into his palm as his other hand twisted in her hair, pulling her to his waiting lips.

“If I kiss you, will you feel butterflies?”

She should lie, but her heart wouldn’t let her. “Yes.”

“Good.” His mouth pressed against hers, his hands tangling in her hair.

This time, Lilly didn’t hesitate. She moaned softly into Jacob’s mouth as he turned her over onto the bed. This was no run-of-the-mill kiss. This was a mind-blowing, fireworks exploding, panties on the floor kind of kiss. His tongue laved into her mouth as his hands tugged her tank over her head, tossing it over his shoulder. He pulled back, his breath catching as he gazed at her before lowering his head, his tongue tracing from her collarbone to her breasts.

Jacob brought his mouth back up to hers. “You’re so lovely.” Before she could respond, his lips claimed her mouth again, and at that moment, she believed him without reservation.

Their tongues danced for a few minutes, until Jacob pulled back, a rueful smile on his face. “You’re making it very hard to keep my promise.” With those words, he stood, pulling on his shirt.

Lilly propped herself up in the bed, bewildered by his sudden turnabout. Realizing she was nude on top, she reached for her tank, yanking it over her head. “I hope the session was helpful.”

“I feel amazing.” He perched on the edge of the bed, his blue eyes searching her face. “What is it about you?”

“It’s not me, it’s a clearing of stagnant energy.”

His lips claimed hers, soft and tender. “No, it’s you.” He stood and pulled on his pants, and Lilly realized he was leaving.

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