Page 99 of The Making of Marnie Jones

“You're different from the woman who left here four years ago. I figured you’d be back within weeks. As every day passed, my pride in you grew.”

Marnie basked in the warmth of the praise. She always sought her father's approval, but having Matilda’s admiration was wonderful. “Thank you.”

The housekeeper gave her a curt nod, and the moment was over. Before awkwardness could set in, Martin and Jake appeared.

“I came to say good night.” Jake met her gaze directly.

“Olivia’s taken her treasures upstairs. I suspect she’s going to read one of her new books. I'll walk you out.” Marnie eased out of the chair and rose.

“That’d be nice.”

As she left the room, her father took her seat, leaving him directly across from Matilda. The cordiality still caught her off guard. Apparently Matilda’s threat to quit emboldened her, and smacked Marnie’s father upside the head.

“Let's leave them be.” Jake’s words were a mere whisper as he took her hand.

A mental cheer when she didn't stiffen. She followed him down the hall and out the front door.

Night’d fallen, and the breeze was pleasant and cool. Still holding hands, they wended their way to his SUV. When they arrived at the driver's door, he surprised her by turning his back and leaning against it.

No one will overhear us.“How’d it go with my father?”

“He thanked me for my efforts to get you and Olivia out of the news. He approves of my desire to do what is best for Olivia, and he's willing to let me interview him about his company's remedial and proactive environmental policies.” His brow arched.

Her mind whirled as she digested his words. “You've made an impression on my father.”

“I want to make an impression on you.”

“You have.” Soft, yet strong. “You have.”

He continued to lean back against the SUV. “I’d like to kiss you again.”

Really? Now?“I’d like that as well.” She took a tentative step forward.

“Let’s try something new. Tell me if you're not ready.”

Interest piqued, she took another step forward. “You have my full attention.”

“I’d love to feel your body against mine.”

Huh?“Meaning?”

“Do you trust me?”

“Of course.” No hesitation. Because she did trust him.

He snagged her hand as he widened his stance. “I'm going to pull you toward me. You can place your hands on my chest again, and you can push away if you become uncomfortable.”

“Okay.” Her enthusiasm grew. Her body was reacting, responding.

“Hopefully, you’ll lean against me.” He gazed intently at her. “I suspect you'll feel my physical reaction to you.”

Her stomach dropped. What he was suggesting was perfectly understandable. He’d have an erection, for goodness’ sake. They were both wearing jeans, were lit by the garden lamps, and were close to the house.

You’re safe.

She took another step toward him, leaving a whisper’s breath between them.

Raising her hands, she placed them on his chest.

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