Page 422 of The Sinner: James

He breathes into me, pouring more fire into me.

“I will come home...” he says against my lips. “I promise you. I will.”

11

RAIN

He covers my lips,my cheeks, my hair, my neck, and my shoulders with soft, warm kisses that make me squirm with pleasure.

As soothing as it is, his warmth is chased away by a cold sensation.

Panicked, I jerk upright and snap my eyes open. Frantic thoughts bounce around in my head.

I flick my eyes to the windows. It’s raining, and gusts of wind whistle against the glass.

It’s also dark outside, and the city lights are smudged, shimmering behind a curtain of water.

A flash of lightning mars the sky before a clap of thunder booms nearby.

Shivers race down my spine.

I flick my eyes to the side of the bed. Was I dreaming? Or was he really here, kissing me? Making love to me?

I glance around.

My clothes, my purse, and my phone are all here.

Smoothly, I slide off the bed and leave the room naked.

His scent drifts to me, filling my nostrils.

It wasn’t a dream.

He’s here.

I search the rooms when a shaft of light glows under the bathroom door, catching my attention.

I open the door.

Lit candles cast fluttering lights over the walls.

Lying in the tub, with his head propped against the edge and his eyes closed, he enjoys a few moments of calm.

My heart swells.

“James?”

I call his name again while stepping into the bathtub.

He cracks an eye open and smiles before straightening and making room for me next to him.

“What are you doing here?” I ask, welcoming his arm around me.

“I can’t sleep.”

“What time is it?”

“Four.”

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