“I gasped as he tightened his embrace around me.“I’m afraid I’ll never have the opportunity to hold you like this again.” His voice was soft and vulnerable. “You don’t have to let me go . . . ever." David shook his head in denial. “My mind refuses your words, yet my vacant chest welcomes them,” he argued, his face buried in my neck.”

“He cupped my face and closed the gap between us nestling his nose next to mine. I felt my heart in my throat, beating at full speed. “No.” I restrained him, raising my right arm against his chest. David moved slightly back, staring deep into my eyes. “You’ll be the death of me. I swear it.”

“I’m going to tell you my name, since you’re too shy to ask.”.... “It’s David . . .” He slowly leaned in toward my face, “ . . . and I’m real.”...I suddenly recognized that voice... “I win,” he grinned.”

“What’s up with you and that new guy anyway?” Simon watched David leaving the room with contempt on his face. “Nothing.” “Nothing or none of my business?” “Both.” I placed my hand on my chin over the table and pretended he wasn’t talking to me.”

“Why didn’t you do something about it the first time you found me there?” “Isis, have you ever looked at yourself?” He intently looked into my eyes. I kept silent, listening for the rest of his explanation. “You’re gorgeous. Fit for the god of gods. You are unending beauty to the tips of your fingers.”

“I’ll not tire until I’ve claimed your heart,” he whispered into my hair. “And that is both a promise and a threat.” I could feel his warm breath against my cheek as he spoke.”

“David caught me as my legs gave out from under me. “Careful,” he smiled, “I’m lethal.”