He hesitates, obviously wanting to say more but holding back, and I narrow my gaze. “What is it?” I ask.
He places one hand on my shoulder. “Apparently yourfriendswere in the bar one night when you were there helping.They saw you and that’s how Preston knew where to come looking.”
I nod, and though I ought to feel betrayed, I never believed any of the girls in my social circles were my real friends. “Thanks for telling me, but I can’t say I’m surprised.”
He settles his free hand on my other shoulder, and I lean into his protective grasp. “You deserve better,” he says in a husky voice. “You should have people in your life you can trust.”
I swallow hard at the sincerity in his voice, pushing back the lump in my throat. It isn’t often I let myself think about what I’m missing in my life. It wouldn’t do me any good. My focus has always been on looking ahead and making sure I hold tight to whatever convictions I can. Like standing firm against my parents’ desire for me to date and marry Preston.
“I have my grandmother. She knows where I am and she’d never say a word,” I murmur. “I have my sister. And now I have you.”
His eyes open wide, his surprise evident. I understand. I’m not sure what possessed me to include him in my tiny circle, but my gut tells me it’s true. He gave me a place to stay, allows me to help at the bar he manages, lets me paint in his house, and most importantly, he kept Preston away. Not to mention, he threatened him on my behalf.
Yes, I can trust Maddox James.
I also want him. Want him to kiss me without reservation this time. Want to see his muscled, sexy body naked and aroused for me, and to feel his warmth on my skin.
I want him to take my virginity.
There is so much he can show me, teach me, and make me feel. Though I know, even if I convince Maddox to let himself go, this thing between us can only be temporary. He’s already listed his reasons he isn’t right for me.
Even if I know he’s wrong.
Despite the obstacles, I won’t be deterred. I meet his hooded gaze and see the desire in his eyes. He’s feeling the same need.
“Maddox? Are you going to push me away again?” I ask in a whisper.
A long moment passes, and I wait, anxious and nervous. I can’t handle another rejection, but I’ll never regret putting myself out there. I sense he’ll be worth it.
A low growl sounds from inside him, and he finally caves, lowering his head, his mouth inches from mine.
“I want you, Gabby.”
My heart explodes with happiness, and with the feeling of déjà vu inside me, I rise onto my toes and press my lips against his, sliding my tongue inside his mouth. The hands on my shoulders moved to my hips and then he’s lifting me without breaking the kiss. I wrap my legs around his waist, and somehow, he walks us through the house and toward his bedroom, stopping only to lay me down on the bed.
He leans over me and braces his arms on either side of my head. “And you’re right. Youcantrust me.”
I glance up at him and know I have to be honest. “Then you should know something before we go any further.”
He presses his lips to mine, ignoring my words for a long kiss, one that almost has me forgetting what I need to say.
“What is it?” he asks as he rises and lifts the hem of his shirt, pulling it over his head, revealing the gorgeous, tanned chest I’ve dreamed about touching.
I hope my next words don’t put an end to my daydreams.
“I’m a virgin.”
***
Maddox
Gabby’s words echoin my ears. “You’re…what?” I shake my head. “Never mind. Stupid question. I heard you.” I just can’t believe it. I noticed her innocence in some things, but don’t most women have sex in college?
“Surprise! I was waiting for the right man.” Her cheeks flush pink in embarrassment, and she rolls to her side in an attempt to scramble off the bed.
I stop her, flipping her onto her back again. “Hold up. You didn’t give me a chance to respond.”
“Maybe I don’t want to hear you tell me,you’re sorry but it’s too much responsibility.”
