Kade looked shocked by the question but he quickly recovered, sitting up and facing me. I sat still, my heart pounding against my chest. I didn't know what prompted me to ask that question, but wherever that boldness came from, it was gone, and I could do nothing but just watch him with my lips parted.

He cupped my cheek gently like I was made of glass, stroking my cheekbone, his eyes searching mine. “Still want to kiss me?” he asked softly, his breath warm on my lips.

“Yes,” I breathed.

He leaned in, looking like he was giving me time to change my mind, but there was nothing to...