A thrill races through her belly, eyes widening when his hand squeezes her bottom. Her long legs encircle him, helping keep her snug against him when her arms fumble around his neck. The bruises on the insides of her elbows are still tender, and she needed to adjust a bit to avoid hitting them.

A dozen cute quips pass through her mind; a smile flickers at the edge of her lips. But any taunt she might have uttered gets lost in his eyes, his warmth, and his strength. Her breathing quickens, and for this one moment she simply holds on tight.