The warmth of his breath mixed with Sophia's fresh, intoxicating scent made Sophia feel incredibly warm and secure inside.

She slowly raised her arm and draped it around his waist, burying her face further into his chest. After a long while, in a voice so soft it was barely audible, she whispered, "I understand."

Her words were faint, almost imperceptible, but Jackson heard them. He tightened his embrace, wishing he could merge with her completely, to hold her so ...