His mouth met hers with a softness that caught her completely off guard. The urgency that had charged his earlier kiss shifted into something tender, almost romantic in nature. Though she hadn’t expected this, she melted into his embrace, her body naturally responding as his arms wrapped around her in a protective hold. She burrowed into his firm chest, surrendering to the surprising comfort of the moment.

When he finally withdrew himself from her and helped her to her feet, ...