Page 69 of Highland Stars
I slide my hand underneath his jacket, and around his back. I’ve never wanted to be this near to anyone in my entire life.
Malcolm pauses, resting his forehead against mine, then whispers, “You are so beautiful. Inside and out, you’re incredible.”
Ross’s voice threatens to echo in my mind for the millionth time. It’s been second nature to let him in. To let his voice take precedence over the words of those who actually care aboutme. I push back the feelings I’ve let run wild inside me for far too long and slam the door against them. Forcing myself to try to believe Malcolm, and I think maybe I do.
Before I can respond, his lips are on mine again, tenderly showing me he meant what he said. He slowly moves forward, laying me on my back, then whispers, “Open your eyes, and watch the stars. This kiss should be magical, in every way.”
So I do.
I believe one reason people close their eyes while kissing is sensory deprivation. It makes it easier to focus on the feel of the kiss. And, I can confirm, that’s a fantastic way to do it. But kissing when the only thing you see is stars and the swirl of the galaxy? That’s another level of intensity all together. The only thing keeping me on earth is the gentle press of Malcolm's chest against mine, his hands caressing my neck and face, or tangling in my hair.
The breath is stolen from my lungs when he trails kisses along my jaw to just behind my ear. He pauses to whisper, “I feel like I’ve been waiting a very long time for this.”
“Me too.” Oh my gosh. Me too.
38
Malcolm
IkissedMakenna.Ihadn’t meant to. I didn’t plan the visit to the Dark Sky Park to give us a romantic opportunity to kiss, though it had crossed my mind and I couldn’t be happier with the way things ended up. Now she’s snuggled up against me, claiming that I’d gotten her used to my warmth, so we have to stay close. I don’t mind.
The stars above are otherworldly, but all I want to do is look at Makenna. I want the sun to rise and illuminate her features, despite wanting this moment to last forever.
She turns in my arms, and props up on her elbow, then leans toward me. She runs the tip of her nose along my cheek, and when she leans back, our breaths mingle. Her teasing has left me with no other choice. I slide my hand under her jaw andbring her lips to mine.
Magic.
Dead brilliant magic. No wizard necessary.
She hums when I move my hand to her waist and pull her toward me. I’m done for. I’m overwhelmed with the feeling that I’ve found the rest of my life, and she’s here, wrapped in my arms.
My neurotransmitters are working overtime with the feel of her against me, and her hand pressing hard into my lat sends my nerves into a pleasure frenzy. Though it’s too soon to say it, or even believe it, my heart is fair bursting with love for Makenna.
She somehow gets her hand between us and slides her fingertips back and forth in my beard. A long groan comes from deep in my throat and I feel her smile against my lips.
“Like that, is it?”
“Aye. Like that and then some.”
I imagine her smiling, looking pleased with herself. She lays her head in the crook of my arm, turning her attention back to the stars.
Despite not really being able to see her, I have to tear my eyes from Makenna to join her in watching the sky. Time passes all too quickly with her snuggled into my side. I know without looking it’s time for us to leave, though it’s the last thing I want to do.
I sigh. “I never want to move, but unfortunately I have to work in the morning.”
“You mean we don’t live here now? Free from work and responsibilities?”
“As much as I wish that were the case, I’m not sure I’d be able to keep you warm come November.”
Makenna hums. “But you’d try.”
“Oh, aye. It’d be my life’s mission.” I lean toward her ear. “And I’d enjoy it.”
“So when are you moving to the States?” Rory asks, interrupting my daydream of going home and kissing Makenna again. I’m not sure what she’s up to today, while I’m at work. She hadn’t decided when I left, but I’m looking forward to hearing all about it when I get home.
After I kiss her.
“What?”
