For a moment, neither of us says anything. It’s as if we both are afraid to speak, but then she takes one single step forward.

“You’re pushing me away,” she says, her eyes locking with mine.

My jaw tightens. “No, I’m keeping you safe.”

Something shifts between us and I feel the tension growing again. I have the urge to kiss her, but refrain until I see her gaze drop to my lips for a half a second too long.

My control snaps.

I close the distance between us, my arm wrapping around ...