I can't believe Alex is asking me if I'm sure. Of course I'm sure!

"Yes," I say. The word is a plea.

His hands continue to move up my back, but this time there's a different sort of pressure behind his touch - almost like he can't decide whether to pull me toward him or push me away. His entire body is rigid beneath me, as if he's right at the edge of his restraint. Finally I lean back slightly and lift my arms up, a silent indication that he should remove my ...