I want to be patient, but there’s a roaring demand in my mind that I take what is rightfully mine. My kiss grows savage. My fingers work on the buttons of her dress. Her small hands push against my shoulders, and somehow, she manages to pull her mouth away from mine.

"Jared, wait." She’s panicked and breathless.

I don’t move away as I fight for control, but I stop and allow her a moment to breathe. My gaze meets hers. "We’re outside in the open. Someone ...