i. Jennifer shivered, but it had nothing to do with the temperature.Â
Jonathan’s gaze was fixed on her, all of his immense attention focused on her mouth. The hand across her middle fiddled at her waist, fingers brushing her shirt out of the way until he encountered bare skin. His palm was hot on her belly and she tingled when he breathed against her lips.Â
Max was talking and each time Jonathan’s mouth drifted away Jennifer’s stomach clenched with thwarted desire.Â
He stroked her quivering stomach and dipped playfully beneath her waistband.Â
“I know what’s important.” He refused to look away.Â
ii. Jonathan had never once thought about firing Max. Their relationship wasn’t like that, even if he did give Max a paycheck every week. He was, however, tempted to topple the man overboard if he didn’t stop interrupting.Â
Jennifer was warm and pliant in his embrace. He hadn’t yet tasted her but he knew her lips would be sea-kissed and salty. She would taste of bright sunshine and tangy need. Her fingers clutched at his elbow, even as she shook her head to chase off Max’s words.Â
Jonathan did know what was important and it was right there in his arms.


















