Orion’s kiss deepened, and as my hand moved to embrace his neck, I pulled it back, afraid of making any move that might send the wrong message. His hand, once pressed against the wall, now rested on the back of my head.

His massive form enveloped me, offering a sense of security. I closed my eyes, but my heartbeat remained rapid. If I said I hadn’t imagined continuing to kiss Orion in the dark, him attending to every inch of my skin, holding me against the wall, I would be lying to myself.

Just as I was about to wrap my arms around Orion’s waist, a small light by the...