AUTHOR’S POV

Aria’s lips claimed Liam’s in a slow, savoring kiss that froze him in place. She didn’t pull back. Instead, she deepened it, pressing harder until his restraint finally cracked and he kissed her back. His mouth opened gradually, welcoming her, and the world seemed to dissolve around them.

Liam’s hand slid up to her neck, steadying her as he tasted her fully, unhurried, memorizing every curve of her lips. Aria’s fingers drifted downward, bold and searching, until they ...