Page 52 of You Rock My World
I have a sudden urge to pull her closer, to feel her body pressed against mine. But I hold back. She hasn’t given me permission yet.
So I let her do with me as she pleases, surrendering to her examination as she charts paths I didn’t know I wanted her to find.
And then I remember how to talk.
“The waves represent life’s trials. The strength it takes to keep moving forward, no matter the challenges,” I explain as I try not to shiver. “And the lost ship is a reminder that even through a storm, we can find a way back to shore.”
“It’s beautiful, Dorian. Not just the tattoo, but the meaning behind it.” Her hands stop. “Is it okay that I’m touching you?”
Ah, I must’ve been not so good at hiding the shivers. “More than okay.” I sound strangled. My vocal coach would call this a masterclass in hownotto breathe.
Josie gives me a slow smile and her hand moves up, skimming over my skin until it comes to rest on the phoenix rising from flames on my left pectoral.
“No need to explain this one.”
But I want to. I want her to understand every part of me, especially the parts I keep hidden from the world.
“The phoenix isn’t just my name, it reflects who I am.” As I talk, I wonder if she can feel the pounding of my heart under her palm. “Every time life burned me down, I found a way out of the ashes.”
“You didn’t just rise, Dorian. You took the ashes and turned them into magic for everyone else. It’s kind of annoyingly impressive, you know?” She stares at me, worrying her lower lip in a way that drives me feral.
I lean forward, invading her space a little. “If you don’t want me to burst into flames right now, please stop biting your lip.”
“Uh, naughty. You’re using your seduction voice again.”
“Maybe it’s just my lustful voice.”
“Are you in lust with me?”
“Yes.” I drop my hands on either side of her chair, pulling her close until her knees are between mine. “You have no idea of the unspeakable things going through my head right now.”
Our faces are too close.
“Unspeakable?” she pants. “Don’t tell me you’re shy.”
I nuzzle her neck. “Not shy, Monroe. Just thought it was against the rules.”
Her chest heaves as she stutters her reply. “D-doing is against t-the rules… t-talking is allowed.”
“Talking is allowed, huh?” I stare her down. “In that case, where should I start? By telling you how stunning you look tonight?”
Her breathing quickens, and her eyes become half-lidded.
“Dorian.” My name on her lips is more of a plea than an objection.
“Or should I tell you about the way the thin straps of this dress have been taunting me?” I lift one, the material elastic, and let it drop back on her skin with a smack.
Josie gasps.
“I’m jealous of a piece of fabric, Josie. That should concern us.”
“Maybe it should concern only you,” she quips breathless. “I’m good.”
“I’m not. I’m losing my mind. Having you this close. Do you know what you do to me?”
“Mmm… Unspeakable things, apparently.”
I brace my hand on the back of her chair, my thumb brushing her shoulder. “More like unforgettable.”
