Page 31

They’re real.

The man in front of me is as real as it gets.

The question is are my feelings—my attraction—real? I know emotions are heightened in dangerous situations and having a stalker who isn’t shy about using violence definitely falls into that category.

Am I latching onto Granger because he’s safe?

Because he takes care of me?

I won’t deny I find that sexy. I find him sexy. The whole package. The growly mountain man who is willing to go to any length to protect me. Who the hell wouldn’t find that sexy?

“Brooke.”

Speaking of his growly voice…it’s deeper than normal. More ragged, more guttural, and when my gaze meets his, the heat in his eyes has me sucking in a breath.

“Don’t look at me like that unless you’re prepared for me to do something about it.”

“I...” I snap my mouth shut. Swallow. But my curiosity outweighs caution. “How am I looking at you?”

“Like you want to eat me for dinner.”

He’s not wrong. The thought of running my tongue over his wide chest has my heart knocking on my ribs and thumping in my ears. “Would that be a bad thing?”

“Brooke,” he groans.

I don’t know where this bravery is coming from. I’ve never been someone to initiate sex, or go after anything I’ve wanted really. Then again, I don’t recall wanting anything the way I want Granger. He makes me feel safe. Safe enough to ask for what I want. Demand it.

Taking a step toward him, I ask, “Well, would it be?”

“Be careful. I don’t play games.”

Another step. “Good. I don’t know how to play them.”

“Brooke.” My name is a plea for something I can’t decipher. “If we cross that line you’re approaching, there’s no going back.”

“I’m not sure what that means.”

“And that right there is why you shouldn’t look at me the way you are or come any closer.”

“I don’t know if I can stay away.” And I don’t. He’s become my anchor. Since that first night he came running to the rescue, his presence—the thought of him—has given me strength and comfort. “I’m not experienced.”

He goes perfectly still. I don’t think he’s even breathing.

“I’m not a virgin.”

He chokes out what I think is a laugh.

“But I don’t think I’ve had good sex before.”

“Jesus, Brooke.” He scrubs a hand over his scruff-covered jaw. “You can’t talk to me about this stuff.”

“Why not? I feel like I can talk to you about anything. Ask you anything. Tell you anything.”

“You can. Sort of. But I’m only human, and the temptation of you is already eating at my control.”

“Why do you need to control yourself around me, Granger?” I know I’m pushing him. I don’t know why I am except I can’t stand the idea of tiptoeing around each other for the next few days while we’re trapped inside this house.

“Because I’m old enough to know what I want and I don’t think you are.”