...Amy bit her lip. She wanted so badly to ask him to stay. The aftereffects of arousal still hummed along her nerves, accelerated by the adrenaline added by her fright. His gaze held hers, steady and warm, no less admiring than it had been before, no less full of desire and need.

“If you’d like to stay, I think I’d be glad for the company. You can start out just holding me, but something tells me that’s not likely the end of it.”

“That’s up to you, Angie. Whatever limits you set are what I’ll abide by. I’d be a liar if I didn’t admit I want you, but it doesn’t have to be right now, tonight or tomorrow, even next week.” He grinned, then turned serious again.

“Don’t get me wrong. I like sex as well as the next guy and you’re one very sexy woman, but I also respect you. I understand you’ve been through some bad times that probably crop up in flashbacks now and then. When I’m sure you’re as ready and eager as I am, that’s when it’ll happen.”

“Please stay.”

Wordlessly, he opened his arms. She walked into their circle, buried her face in the hollow of his shoulder and let the warm, secure comfort enfold her. For weeks she had been strong, determined, showing a calm demeanor to her son and making fast decisions as they crossed the country. All at once her strength had run out. Jack offered comfort and at least temporary oblivion if she let the mutual attraction blaze again. The combination was too tempting to resist.

His embrace felt so secure. Safe, in the arms of a cop yet. I hope I’m not making a terrible mistake. Regardless, right now she couldn’t push herself away from him to save her life. Even though she knew these platonic, comforting sensations could shift to a flash burn of lust in moments.

It started with the tingle in her breasts where they pressed against the wall of his solid chest, electric energy that immediately had her nipples pebbling into hyper-sensitive buds, thrusting against the restraint of her bra.

Heat began to pool low in her belly and settled in her womb, sending new fluid warmth rushing down to her pussy. She shifted slightly and came into firm contact with the urgent thrust of his cock, seeking her through the layers of their clothing. His hand, which had been gliding up and down her back in a soothing motion, lowered to cup one buttock. Around her waist, his other arm dragged her closer, almost grinding her pelvis against his groin. His fingers flexed, digging into the muscled curve of her ass.

“You’re making me crazy, Angie. If you aren’t sure this is what you want, say something now quick.”