Chapter 48: Roan

"Consider them lost," I whisper fiercely against her mouth.

In three seconds flat, I make good on that promise. The boxers have disappeared and we're both naked, embracing one another as the sun strokes over our chilled flesh. My skin might be cold from the impromptu swim, but I'm burning up inside.

Without another word, I wrap one arm under the back of her thighs as I hoist her into my arms. She can't weigh more than a buck twenty. She's so light. About half my weight.

She nestles close to my chest as I carry her to the house and through the front door to my bedroom. Gently, I place her in the middle of the king-sized bed. Her body sinks into the feather comforter as her gaze burns into mine. For a moment, it feels as if my heartbeat stutters before pounding into overdrive.

Again, I'm struck by the realization that this girl matters.

She matters more than anyone else ever has.

How's that for a kick in the balls?

I get lost in the heaviness of my thoughts until she stret