"Rachel," I said sternly, "I'm not going to tell you that you're my favorite. It's not a competition, and I've already told you that you're sexy as fuck. That should be all you need."

"But..." Rachel began, but I didn't let her finish. We'd passed into the brush at last, and I made my move.

Pulling her suddenly against me, I cut off her words with a kiss. It wasn't forceful, but it was firm. I left my lips on hers for a full second before pulling away. Rachel looked back at me, eyes wide.

"Words are cheap, Rachel. But actions are another story. I won't tell you that you're...