Page 126 of The Making of Marnie Jones

“Of course.”

He appeared uncertain.

Tell it to him like it is.

“Could you get comfortable, get into this bed, and hold me tonight?”

“Let me go get my sweats.”

I don’t want you to go. I’m going to be fine.

“No, Jake, don't go.”

“Not to be difficult, but me sleeping in jeans won’t be comfortable for either of us.”

His eyes conveyed the concern that was omnipresent because he didn’t want to ever hurt her—ever push her beyond what she could endure. Which was why she responded, “I know.” The urge to squirm under his scrutiny was overwhelming, but she fought it.

“What’re you saying?”

“That I’ll be okay if you take your jeans off. And I will.” She needed to convince him.

His hand moved to the snap of his jeans. “You're the strongest woman I know.”

She waved off his statement. “I am not strong.” Yet even as she said the words, she watched with a strange fascination as he shucked his jeans.

She expected panic when she saw him in his briefs. Instead, desire snaked through her. Involuntarily, she licked her lips.

With deliberate movements, he rounded the bed. “Are you sure?”

“I'm sure. I'm really sure.” Now, if only her heart would stop beating so loudly she was sure he could hear.

He appeared satisfied and slid under the sheets. “Turn on your side…away from me.”

“Okay.” She rolled on her side and held herself expectantly. She didn't have too long to wait as he gently tugged her backwards and into his arms.

Ah, spooning.

Relax.

Despite her pajamas, warmth emanated from his body.

Gently he ran his hand up and down her arm. “Marnie, don't overthink it.”

How did he know?Was she that transparent, or was he that intuitive? “What if I can never go through with it?”

“Oh, sweetheart.” He placed a kiss on her cheek and pulled her closer. “You're putting way too much pressure on yourself, and not giving me enough credit. Unless you send me away, I'm not going anywhere. Sex is nice, but being with you is much nicer.”

“You're just saying that.”

“Don't do that.” A dangerous edge in his voice. “I walked away the last time you questioned my integrity. I know you're smarter than to do it a second time.”

Well crap.She was doing it again. Borrowing trouble. “I guess I ought to apologize. Again.”

He pressed another kiss to her cheek. “I'm a patient man, Marnie. I intend to give you all the time you need. Once you trust me, I’ll tell you my intentions.”

“I do trust you.”

“You're just saying that so I’ll unveil my future plans.”

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