“He stood and inhaled, then walked a few more feet, stooped, and prodded a chunk of rabbit fur.“I’m definitely thinking something with more body parts,” I said. “Like a head.”He gave a snort of a laugh. “It’s probably around here somewhere, but I suppose you want the parts attached, too.”

“I really wanted to see you,” I said.“And I really wanted to see you, too,” she said. “When Icouldn’t see you any more, I realized that. It was as clear as ifthe planets all of a sudden lined up in a row for me. I reallyneed you. You’re a part of me; I’m a part of you. You know,somewhere—I’m not at all sure where—I think I cutsomething’s throat. Sharpening my knife, my heart a stone.”

“What’s ‘at supposed tae mean?” He asked insulted.“Everyone always has an ulterior motive.” I replied.“Well I dinnae, an’ I’m nae claimin’ tae be innocent. I was lookin’ fur ye, as per yer mother’s request. Nae hidden agenda here!” He said sternly. “Besides, if I wanted ye dead, you’d be dead.” He stressed out the last part.”

“Gabriel is my bodyguard, " I said stiffly. J.B. snorted. "He wants something to do with your body, but it ain't guarding that he's thinking about.”

“I’m really not hungry,” she repeated, lifting the coffee cup and inhaling the fragrant steam before sipping.“Just a few bites,” he cajoled, taking his own place beside her. “You need to keep up your strength for tonight.”She gave him a heated, slumberous look, remembering her fantasy. “Why? Are you planning something special?”“I suppose I am,” he said consideringly. “It’s special every time we make love.”

“Travis walked me to class, his grip tensing a few times when my feet slipped on the ice. “You should be more careful,” he teased.“I’m doing it on purpose. You’re such a sucker.”“If you want my arms around you, all you have to do is ask,” he said, pulling me into his chest.”