Lena’s breath stuttered, her eyes going wide as Silas Thorn’s shadow fell over her. The wild hunger in his gaze didn’t threaten her. It didn’t frighten her. It ignited something deep and instinctive something she hadn’t felt in years.
“Silas…” Her voice wavered. “Wait ”
“I’ve waited,” he murmured, settling himself between her knees as gently as a man consumed by need could manage. His body pressed to hers, solid muscle and simmering heat. “I’m trying gods, Lena, I am trying to be patient.”
The ground was soft beneath her, grass warm from the sun, the faint scent of pine drifting on the wind. His body caged hers without trapping her. She could push him away. She knew that. He knew that. But she didn’t push.
Her hands trembled as they rested against his chest. His heart hammered under he
