I can’t seem to shake the feeling that surges through me, something I’m not sure I’ve ever felt this strongly before. There’s a pulsing between my legs, matching the beating of my heart.
My hands move on their own, and I grab the nape of his neck, turning my head to face his and bringing our lips together. It’s been so long since I’ve kissed someone, my nerves are through the roof.
The rhythm we find ourselves in feels natural, familiar, as if we’ve done this a thousand times before. He takes the lead almost instantly, and his hands move to my hips, pulling me close against him.
My body begs for him, a quaking between my thighs—but it’s too soon. I’m not ready for that level of intimacy yet. At least my mind isn’t.
Breaking the kiss, I rest my forehead against his, catching my breath. He does the same, just holds me there.
I feel safe in his arms, safe enough to tell him, “I’m not…ready for anything else yet. Not today.”
“That’s okay, Pinky,” he reassures me, pressing his lips to mine quickly. “I’m happy to have even been blessed with a kiss.”
Gods, is heperfect? If my lips against his is a blessing to him, I can only imagine how sweet he’ll be if things go further.
Whenthings go further.
I want him around, and I can admit it now. There’s something about him, even from the beginning, that has drawn me to him.
Granted, at the beginning, I thought it was the universe telling me to steer clear, after the whole penis-pants-popping incident. Now, I see that it’s something different.
Something more than I thought.
“Well, then let me bless you again.” I smash my lips into his, tangling one of my hands up in his hair.
His hands grip me tightly, but don’t go wandering all over my body, respecting what I told him.
Teasingly, I gently bite his bottom lip, pulling it as I break the kiss. He lets out a mixture of a groan and a laugh, and I can’t help the heat that rises in my cheeks.
“The things you do to me, Pinky…” He shakes his head, gently caressing my sides.
I bite my own lip, moving my hands slowly from his hair and neck. His eyes scan my face, the sweetest smile on his lips. His cheeks have a slightly purple hue to them—is that how genies blush?
Well, I really shouldn’t tease him anymore, especially not since he’s being so respectful. Instead, I just want to spend some time with him. Get cozy with him.
“Want to watch a movie?” I ask, my nerves beginning to flood back into my brain.
What he says washes them away. “Absolutely. I’d do just about anything if it meant spending time with you.”
Gods, please don’t let me mess this thing up.
Chapter Eight
ARMAN
It’s been nearly two weeks since I’ve heard from Pinky—or seen her. Even Orie won’t tell me what’s going on, but she has a sad look in her eyes when I pop in and ask.
I’ve sent Pinky a few texts, but I don’t want to bombard her. Something must be going on, and if she doesn’t want to tell me about it…well, I’ll accept that.
The last thing I want to do is push her too hard and end up losing her. Besides, if I can do this all right, eventually she’llwantto tell me what’s going on in her life.
Staring at my blank phone screen, my heart skips a beat when it lights up, a text from my darling Pinky appearing.
Sorry for disappearing on you…meet me at the conservation area around 7:00?
My thumbs move faster than they ever have before, typing out my response.
I look forward to it.
