Page 8 of Introvert

A sigh escaped my lips, and his fingers tightened in response.

The kiss deepened, and I felt completely consumed.

And warm.

And…safe and out of control at the same time.

Was kissing always like this?

It was my first kiss, so I didn't know.Maybe I could ask him later. Ihadn't forgottenthis was just pretend. But that didn't change howreal it felt or how much I was feeling.

Kissing a stranger.

One who seemed to know my body better than I did. He played it so masterfully.

I wasn't sure how long the kisslasted. Time seemed to slow down while his lips were on mine. Butwhen we finally came up for air, my brain wasmushy around the edges. As I stared up at him and heback at me, I didn't know what to say.

Looking away, I took note of the people-free bushes.

"I think they left," I murmured.

"Who?" he said.

"The reporters."

"Ah."

I looked back at him in surprise. Did he forget they were there? It kind of sounded like he had.The thought that I might not be the only one experiencing a kiss-induced haze made my heart flutter.A beat of silence passed then...

"You okay?" he asked, his voice deeper than before.

A flush suffused my cheeks as I nodded.

"That was some kiss."

"Guess I'm a fast learner," I joked, but he didn't laugh.

His mahoganybrown eyes flashed. "Was that your first kiss?"

"Was it that obvious?"

"No. But I'm honored."

The words held no sarcasm, and for that, I was grateful.Maybe that was why I responded the way I did.

"I'm…thank you," I said.

He lifted a brow at that. "You were the one helping me. So,thank you."

"You'reright. You're welcome."

He laughed quietly, and I tilted my head, enjoying the sound.

"Something funny?" I asked.

"No. Just wonderingwhen you're going to let me go."

"Hmmm?"

---