Page 17 of Wicked Salvation
Maybe, just maybe, he’s right.
But for now, I don’t want this moment to end.
All I can feel is him.
The steadiness of his large hands on my waist.
The weight of his forehead pressed against mine.
The slow, measured breaths he’s taking—like he’s forcing himself to stay in control.
He’s waiting.
Waiting for me to say something.
Waiting for me to regret it.
Waiting for me to pull away.
I don’t.
Because I don’t regret it.
For the first time in so long, I did something because I wanted to. Not because I was told to. Not because it was expected of me. Not because it was duty.Not because it’s the right thing to do.I did it because I wanted it.
I move slightly, pulling back just enough to look Lucian in the eyes. The simple movement of my body against his has him sucking in air. His fingers twitch on my waist before he leans back, taking his hands off me.
I’m still straddling his lower body with mine, my hands flat against his muscular chest.
The loss of warmth from his touch is immediate.
And my bodyscreamsat me that it wants more.
Lucian runs a hand through his hair, composing himself before meeting my gaze. His eyes are even darker before—ladened with lust and somethingelse—but they’re also more guarded.
“We’ve already done too much.” His voice sounds like he’s in agony. “If we go anything further—” He stops, shaking his head slightly. “I need to know this isn’t just because you’re hurting and looking for an escape.”
I swallow. “Of course I’m hurting and looking for an escape.”
His jaw clenches.
“But that’s not why I kissed you,” I finish. “I kissed you because it felt like the right thing to do. You’re my safe space.”
Lucian studies me for a long moment, like he’s trying to find a lie somewhere in my expression. Like he’s giving me one last chance to run.
I don’t take it.
He’s still, tense, like he’s waiting for me to deny what I just said. But I don’t—I’ve actually never felt more whole in my life.This moment, it feels full of everything I’ve ever wanted. All the care, the gentle attention…all thelove.
Do I love Lucian?
It’s a scary thought to think.
I’d rather settle on liking the way he makes me feel.
“I’ve spent my whole life being told what I should want,” I say quietly. “What I should feel. Who I should be.”
He’s quiet, listening.
