“Thank you.”She didn’t know what else to say.Her mind completely blank.
He gave a ghost of a smile.“You’re uncomfortable with compliments.”
“I’ve always thought compliments were insincere praise.You know, like someone says this is delicious when you’ve burned the pan.Or you are the office expert even if you don’t know what you’re doing.”She took a deep breath.“But I appreciate your words.”
“Most women would preen and demand more money.Or think I’ll fall madly in love with them.”
“I’m not sure if there was a question in there, but I don’t want more money and I’m not expecting anything else.”
He cocked his head.“You’re a strange woman.”
“I’m realistic.”
Another minute went by as he studied her.She wondered what he was looking for.
“My name is Gareth.”
“I’m Adalyn.”
“I’d say it’s a beautiful name, but I don’t want you to think I’m giving you an insincere compliment.”
Her cheeks grew warm.“Thank you.”
He chuckled, the rich tones in his voice rolling over her like a dark melody.When he held out his hand to her, she stared at it for a moment before slowly grasping it.Then he tugged, and she half fell into his embrace.
“You don’t have to be nervous.”
“You’re not the one losing your virginity tonight.”
Again, he chuckled.His hand cupped her chin, tilting it up, and closed the gap between their mouths.His lips were warm, almost silken as they moved over hers.The bristles of his mustache ticklish against her skin.He didn’t rush her or hurt her.Just took his time, savoring her as if she was a fine wine.
When he pulled back, her eyelids were slow to rise.
“I have a feeling that was your first kiss.”
“Yes,” she whispered.
“Good.”
Then he kissed her again, and this time, it ignited her world.
