The black beaches of the volcanic island gleamed against the turquoise sea. The woman across from him smiled, her eyes guileless, her expression open and honest. Everything he wasn’t. The backdrop of the ocean framed her blond hair. Several strands had escaped the sophisticated knot. He missed the flowing blond locks he’d seen when they’d first met. Now his fingers itched to release the captured tresses so they’d once again bathe her shoulders. He prayed his gaze didn’t telegraph half of what he wanted from Erin. Every instinct within him shouted that her innocence was real, evoking a protective feeling that he hadn’t felt since his mom had gotten so sick. He couldn’t stop staring at her. From the amazingly long lashes surrounding her emerald eyes, to the blush staining her cheeks, to the fullness of her lips. He wanted to hold Erin in his arms and fold her close. He wanted to touch her in ways no man had.
