After a few steps, Jared’s hand searches for mine. His is warm and strong around mine—it’s the first time I’m actually feeling small and fragile near another person. It’s not a bad feeling. I also feel like I’m worth a million bucks, the way he makes sure I’m comfortable, not tripping on the pavement… he is very protective of me, even in the tiniest gestures he makes, like slowing his pace. I love how he takes the left side, moving so that he’s between me and the road. We’re not talking much. The atmosphere is electric, full of possibilities. I’m really enjoying this date—even the bad start is not enough to taint it. As we walk by a narrow side street, he suddenly pushes me toward it. There, as we’re mostly out of sight, he crowds me against the wall. Jared’s hands find my waist, and he bends to kiss my neck. “You smell so good,” he breathes against my ear, sending waves of desire down my spine. I cannot move or react for a moment, completely stunned—in a good way.
