GAUNTLET (Edit Phase)

Chapter 37 Teaser

“Consider it done.” Rising, he tucked a startled Ollie in beside me, and I took advantage of his closeness by wrapping my arms around his neck. Sighing, I drew him in close for a hug.

“Willow,” he laughed. “I need to go.”

“A moment longer.” Holding him tightly, I soaked in the heat emanating from his body. My lips twitched when he snuggled his face into my neck. His arm snaked around me, pulling me against him. “Just what I needed.”

Reece smiled against my skin. “You’re playing with fire.”

I didn’t care. After Kristoffe’s abrupt violent streak, having Reece this close felt like heaven. He was warm and strong and safe. Everything I’d ever wanted. I squeezed him hard before easing back, my hands on his face, my eyes staring into his.

“Kiss me goodnight,” I breathed.

One corner of his mouth quirked. “I already did.”

“Not properly.”

His smile faded, and my heart throbbed when his arm tightened around me. Pulling me into a sitting position, he slid his fingers into my hair. He leaned close, head slanted, lips hovering just over mine.

My breath stopped.

“Properly?” he whispered.

I nodded, waiting.