Chapter 301

Her legs weakened under her. He felt it immediately. His hold tightened, and in one smooth motion, he turned her around and pulled her fully against his chest. Her forehead pressed into him, her cheek resting against his bare skin. She could feel him now. Solid. Unmoving. His muscles shifted slightly under her touch as she instinctively braced herself against him. His heartbeat was strong beneath her palm, steady and sure, and that steadiness made her chest ache. Why does he always do this to me? she thought weakly. His hand slid up her back, slow this time, almost careful. Then his fingers slipped under the fabric of the shirt she was wearing, his skin cool against hers. Riyana trembled. Not from fear alone. From awareness. From the way her body reacted even when her heart was still confused and bruised. “Jabco…” she whispered, her voice barely there. He lowered his head, his lips brushing her temple, then her cheek. The kiss was softer now, slower, but no less intense. “Don’t look so