Fredrick’s heart bled with her tears, and before he thought about it, he’d gathered her into his arms. He tried to tell himself it was just to comfort his Avatar, but deep down he knew it was more. He’d watched her for months, slowly falling in love with the red-headed woman who watered her plants with such loving attention and read romance novels while she sipped coffee. He’d dreamed of holding her, and the first taste of reality when she’d stroked his chest had been better than any dream. Every time he touched her, the electricity of their connection vibrated through his body, reminding him of his duty and his desire to offer her pleasure and comfort. Goddess above, he could take her right now, but he had no wish to drive her away with his lust. He had to sternly remind his body it had to stay calm. That was almost more difficult than watching her cry. When she relaxed into his embrace, his heart danced a hopeful jig. She smelled like the sour scent of rotting vegetation, and she shook against his chest.
