Page 30 of Unbroken

“You’re going to think I’m crazy.”

“Never.” He lightly grasped her chin, then turned her to face him. “Tell me what’s bothering you.”

“I keep thinking about last week. About…”

Her gaze skittered over his shoulder toward the couch, and suddenly it all made sense.

She was thinking about the kiss.

Had it been too much, too soon?

“Did you enjoy it?”

She licked her lips. “I did. I…”

She hesitated, looking defeated.

“I feel stupid even saying this.”

Aiden shook his head. “Don’t ever feel bad telling me what you want.”

“That’s just it. I want… more.” The word came out on a whisper. “I know I should just let it happen naturally, but I feel better talking about it, you know?”

Her expression was heartbreakingly vulnerable, and he gently tugged her into his arms.

It must have taken an incredible amount of courage for her to admit that.

“I know exactly what you mean.”

He knew how deeply rooted her fears and insecurities ran, and seeing her willing to give herself over to him meant more than she would ever understand. It filled him with pride.

Possessiveness.

Obsession.

Because he knew he would never get enough of her.

He still wasn’t going to make love to her. No matter how much she begged, he knew she wasn’t ready for that yet. He was going to take things slowly, one step at a time. He refused to rush and risk triggering an old memory. She’d been through too much.

He meant what he’d said—he would wait weeks, months, even years for her.

He kept every move slow and controlled, determined to take his time with her. Her arms wound around his shoulders, and he slid his hands down to the curve of her hips before lifting her into his lap.

She blinked up at him, then swallowed hard.

“I’m right here, beautiful.” He coasted one finger over the curve of her cheek, then down the column of her neck. He traced her collarbone with one finger. “It’s just me.”

Keeping his touch light and seductive, he dragged his fingertips over her shoulder and down her arms. He lightly massaged her hand, twining their fingers together.

Holding hands was almost as intimate as kissing.

He loved this connection with her, the pure joy she inspired in him.

He allowed his other hand to explore her back, gradually increasing the pressure of his touch. Aiden leaned in, brushing his nose lightly over hers. Her chest rose with another deep breath, but she didn’t stop him.

Instead, she swayed forward, her mouth connecting with his.

Fireworks shot through him, explosions of sensation.