Danny eyed McKenzi’s retreating form. He swallowed hard at her beautifully shaped ass and remembered how it had plumped to perfection inside his hands. It took every ounce of strength he possessed not to follow her and take her up on her unwitting invitation.

Last night had been a mere prelude of what was to come. She had no idea what lay in store for her. For him. For the life they would soon share.

He yearned to tell her of his dreams, to reveal the secrets of his heart. But not yet. For to act too soon would bring about his destruction. And surely that’s what he would face should he interfere in the preordained course of things.

All in due time. They were close and moving closer. For now it was enough to feast on her beauty. To breathe the same air. To inhale her scent, touch her lush skin.

His body stirred, his senses alert to her return. When he saw her bright smile re-enter the room, his heart swelled inside his chest.

You are mine, McKenzi. I will take you places you have never known. Love and desire you as you have never been loved and desired before. Trust in me and I will show you the way.

“I’d say penny for your thoughts, but that serious look on your face probably means you’re freezing to death.” She handed him the towel and stood back. “You really can’t stay in those wet clothes. You’re welcome to take a hot shower, if you’d like.”

She’s not afraid of me. Shows no regret or embarrassment over last night.

Danny briskly rubbed his head and shot her an appreciative grin. “Sounds inviting, but my clothes will still be wet.”

“Did I forget to mention I have four hulking, older brothers? They helped me move in here, and one of them spent the night. He left some clothes behind. You’re about the same size.”

“Then I accept.” He tossed the towel over one shoulder, and bent down to pull off his shoes. He laid them on the rug and looked up to find her eyeing him curiously.

“No socks?”

“Rarely wear them.”

“Really?”

He eyed her quizzically. “You find that odd?”

McKenzi shrugged. “You said you do a lot of hiking. You must have feet of concrete.”

He laughed. “Hiking is the exception. And formal occasions, of course. Lead me to the shower.”

“This way.”

He trailed behind her through the hallway. When she opened the bathroom door, she flashed those gorgeous blue eyes and promptly robbed him of air. “Just toss your clothes out, and I’ll throw them in the dryer. I’ll leave Matt’s things here on the bench for you.”

She turned to go, but Danny reached out and cupped her chin in his hand. He saw her eyes light with surprise, then surprised them both when he leaned in and covered her mouth with his own.

She tasted sweet, reminding him of honeysuckle that flourished in early spring. Her lips parted beneath his, and he knew they both wanted him to deepen the kiss. But he drew back and murmured, “A small token of my appreciation.”

And, my love, just the beginning of your awakening.