5
GARRISON
She didn't hesitate. Dahlia took the few steps between us and I pulled her into my arms. Placing a hand at the back of her head, I tucked her into my chest so that I could rest my chin on top of her head. Her hands gripped my back, holding on as if she'd never let go. It felt good to have her in my arms—naked, of course—but more importantly, because she wanted me, wanted the comfort and reassurance I could give her.
I, too, was comforted by the feel of her, knowing she was in my grasp once and for all. I hadn't been able to be her shelter, her protector before now. I'd had no claim on her.
But this was the day I'd gone from letting her run rough shod over me to taking charge. For years, I'd kept a safe and reasonable distance from her, allowing her to turn into the beautiful
