“I wasn’t asking you to be my white knight or anything. I just needed to tell someone. Have you ever had something you wish you could talk to someone about, but it’s buried so deep you’re al- most afraid to give it a voice? - Nikki”

“You have no idea how deep the level of my depravity is right now.” He chuckled. “Are you subtly telling me you’re the wolf in sheep’s clothing?” “There’s no subtle about it. I’m flat out telling you.” His eyes roamed over me hungrily, and I knew he was being serious. For whatever reason, I wasn’t scared. I felt safe with him.”

“It’s just a date. One date. If you like it we’ll have more, if you don’t, we won’t. I just want you to give me a chance before you decide I’m not worth it. - Chase”

“Tell me you like me,” he whispered. He was so close I could almost imagine the feel of his lips as they moved, but not quite. I pursed mine together, trying to stop my mischievous smile. “No,” I replied. He shook his head. “That’s not an acceptable answer.” “Well, it’s the one you’re getting.” I laughed and he did too, releasing me and flopping onto his back.”

“Why me?” she finally asked. Sighing, I touched the end of her hair, fingering it slightly. It felt so silky. “You were the first person I saw at this school. I’d parked in the lot and was walking past the auditorium and saw this gorgeous girl come out of the music room. The sun hit your stunning red hair, and it shone so brightly it almost looked like you had a halo. You were staring down at some music you were holding, and you started humming something. I froze. I just stood there and watched you walk by. You were so engrossed you didn’t even notice me.” I twisted the loop of her hair around my finger.”

“Yeah, it will be great for later when it’s darker too. I don’t think I should ravish you right here in the middle of the park in full daylight.” She actually gulped, and I laughed loudly. “I’m just messing with you, Goody. You’re safe.”

“Please tell me it's not too late to fix this. Tell me you still love me. I've never wanted anything as much as I want you. I'll risk everything that's important to me, just to hear you say you want me in your life.”