His pull was magnetic. She couldn't have torn herself away, even if she'd wanted to. But she didn't want to. Oh, no. Curiosity and amusement played across his face, like he couldn't imagine what she saw in him, but he was oh so glad she saw it.

 

When her lips met his, her heart throbbed so madly she could feel it in her throat. His facial hair tickled the tender skin around her mouth. At any other time she might have laughed, but not now. The moment was too intense for that, especially when he planted his palm hard against her back and drew her in to a smouldering kiss. His facial hair didn't tickle her, then.

 

The heat of his embrace made her weak. Thank goodness she was already sitting, because her knees would have given out by now. He'd have to hold her upright, drawing her close to his chest as he cupped the back of her head and kissed her.

 

Time slowed to molasses-dark, sweet, and rich. She breathed through his body as his tongue melted against hers. Her hand found his cheek and she petted his beard. It didn't feel so rough or prickly against her palm. Actually, she liked it. There was something about a neat beard that made a man seem sure of himself. The power in his kiss gave her a similar impression. She'd never been kissed like this. Never in her life.

 

She couldn't come up for air.