“Rise up and lift your lips to death, for it is the sweetest thing you will ever taste.”

“He's rich, handsome and dangerous. You like that."She smiled at the uncharacteristic lack of self-confidence in his tone. "My dear duke. You are rich, handsome and dangerous."His lips lifted on one side. "I would never describe myself as dangerous.""Could you maybe stop talking? I'd like to kiss you but your lips won't stay still."Eyes twinkling, he pressed his lips shut. Finley smiled and guided his head down to hers.”

“Blokes are different from girls," Sam informed her - still scowling. "We don't need to talk about every little thing. You don't hear me whining when I break a nail."Finley's own brows pulled together. "Do you ever think before you open your mouth?""Did I offend your delicate sensibilities?" Sam asked sweetly.”

“There's no denying Bird-man's well-intentioned heart. He's a good guy, not the type of prick who would take your favorite Stryper t-shirt on tour and bequeath it to some random trollop he hooks up with while conveniently forgetting you ever existed.”

“Jasper waited until the man was gone before asking, “You ever get tired of folks puckerin’ up to your backside?”Griffin faced him with mock gravity. “Yes. It is deuced tiring, people doing whatever I wish. Makes my life so very disagreeable.”

“I reckon that's the one thing you and I have in common - we both care about Em."She gave him a small smile. "And we both have naturally charming dispositions."His lips curved a little at her sarcasm. "That, too.”

“Your face is burning so bright, I'm afraid for the draperies. Are you all right?"Fortunately, no one ever died of embarrassment. "Must be the sun. I always end up looking like a tomato.""Right," her friends drawled. "Because the sun is so very hot through those thick rain clouds.""Oh, shut up!" Emily laughed despite herself. "I'm blushing and I've not intention of explaining why.”