Page 78 of The Locksmith's Promise

“You look gorgeous, by the way,” he added.

“Thank you.” I stood taller, pleasure rushing through me.

Other than a few unwanted advances and a handful of catcalls, I hadn’t enjoyed a man’s honest appreciation in far too long.

When Baxter told me to wear something nice, I took him at his word and went all out. It had been a long time since I’d worn high heels, and my legs looked fantastic. Combined with my trench coat, tightly belted at the waist, I looked sexy as hell.

“Took you long enough to say something.”

He barked out a laugh. “You had me all tongue-tied.”

“Oh, sure,” I snorted.

“You did!” He laughed, throwing his arm around my shoulders and hugging me close as we resumed our walk. “Hands waving, hair flying, giving everybody orders, I couldn’t get a word in edgewise.”

He wasn’t wrong.

A ripple of unrest passed through the butterflies in my stomach.

“It’s not that easy, Bax. Other than a couple of professional development weekends, this is the first time I’ve left him.”

He dipped his head and nuzzled me, his lips ghosting over my temple as he palmed the nape of my neck. “I promise I’ll make it worth your while.”

The butterflies took flight, their gossamer wings fluttering against my heart. “I seem to remember you making a similar promise a long time ago.”

His voice lowered to that sexy hum that did detrimental things to my panties. “Did I make good on it back then?”

I smiled at the memory of our first time. “You did. You made it so special for me.”

He sighed, his grip on my neck tightening as he pulled me closer. “It was special for me too, Maggie.”

I closed my eyes as the fear of losing him all over again hit me. I wasn’t that naïve, untouched girl anymore. I knew all too well how easily happily ever after could slip away.

And I knew exactly what I had to lose if things went south.

“Maggie,” he murmured. “I won’t let you down. And if you’re not ready for this, we can just hang out, or even head home if you prefer.”

“No.” I shook my head for good measure. “I want to move forward. I’m ready for you. For us.”

Tipping my chin back, I met his serious gaze.

The raw, unfiltered heat in his eyes stole my breath and set me on fire.

“Bax,” I whispered.

“Tell me what you need.” He stroked his thumb over the pulse in my throat, his eyes searching mine. “Whatever it is, I’ll make it happen.”

The truth settled into my bones. Voice steady, I replied, “I need what I’ve always needed.”

His hand trembled against my neck.

I brushed away the remnants of my fear and slammed the lid down on all my what ifs.

“What’s that?” he asked gruffly.

“You.”

He dipped closer as his dark eyes latched onto mine. “You have me, Maggie. I swear to God, you have me.”

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