Page 69 of The Texan's Secrets

“You haven’t been home to check. What if there’s a flood at your place?”

“There’s not.”

“Are you psychic?”

“No. I’m on the upper floor of a concrete building.”

“How high?”

“Eighth.”

She turned her head, looking surprised in the dim candlelight. “So, you’re right in the downtown core?”

“I am.”

“I didn’t know that.”

She didn’t know that because he hadn’t told her anything about where he lived. He was afraid to give away any personal details.

“Which building?” she asked.

He didn’t want to say. He didn’t want to lie, but he didn’t want to give away his address either.

“Nick?” she asked, searching his expression.

“Are you warming up?” he asked, hoping to distract her. “Getting hungry or thirsty?”

She stilled, going alert. “You don’t want to tell me where you live?”

“It’s near Whitmore and Green. Nothing exciting—a tall, concrete thing a few blocks from the library.”

“Well, that was vague.”

“How was it vague?”

“You didn’t give me the address.”

“Are you mailing me a letter?” He kissed her nearest cheek, working his way over to her lips, partly to distract her, but mostly because he wanted to kiss her.

But she wouldn’t let it go. “It’s like you’re living a mysterious life.”

“My place is not mysterious. It’s boring, utilitarian and uninviting. Plus, it still smells of paint.”

“Can I see it?”

“Sure.” He’d make sure to delay her visit for as long as humanly possible. “But I warn you, I’m not much of a decorator or entertainer for that matter. The place is a bit embarrassing.”

“Compared to my place?” she asked, gesturing around the compact room.

“I like your place. It’s charming.” He turned her in his arms, dropping his voice to a whisper. “Charming, beautiful and very, very sexy when you warm up.”

“Flattery?” she asked with an arched brow.

“Honesty.” He gathered her close and slanted his mouth to hers, kissing her with both desire and gratitude. He was still thankful she was safe.

“Really?” she asked when his hands began to wander. “In the midst of a disaster?”

“It’s only a minor disaster,” he said. “The house can be fixed. Possessions can be replaced. You’re safe. We’re safe. Besides—” he kissed her again, more deeply this time “—what else are we going to do?”

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