Part 185 (1/2)

rung of the ladder, still fighting my way up.”

”You don't need me to reach the top.”

He blew out a stream of smoke. ”Still, I see where he's coming from.

It's easy since we're both crazy about you.”

She moved to him then to press a kiss against his shoulder. ”He'll come

around, Drew. He's just not ready to admit that I'm grown-up. And in

love.”

”If anyone can soften him up, it's you.” He flicked his cigarette away

then turned her into his arms. ”I'm glad you didn't want to go out

tonight.”

”I'm not big on clubs and parties.”

”Just an old-fas.h.i.+oned girl, aren't you?” His lips were curved as they

touched hers.

”Do you mind?”

”Spending the evening alone with you?” His hands moved up and down her

rib cage as he toyed with her mouth. ”Do I look crazy?”

”You look wonderful.” Her breath caught as he skimmed his fingers over

her b.r.e.a.s.t.s. She was small and firm. He felt himself harden as she

trembled against him.

”Sweet,” he murmured. ”Always so sweet.” His mouth grew hungrier on

hers, more demanding, less patient as he circled her off the balcony and

toward the bed. ”The tout's nearly over.”

”Yes.” She let her head fall back when his lips raced down her throat.

”Will you come back to London when it's done, Emma?”

She shuddered again. It was the first hint he'd given her that he meant

what they had to last. ”Yes. I'll come to London.”