“You’re a sulker, aren’t you?”A sulker? Akira had never had a sibling, but she recognized the type. He was a button-pusher. “And you’re a younger brother, aren’t you?”

“Max cuffed his brother good-naturedly on the ear as River slid in past him and bent to kiss Sophia on the cheek. “Hello, are you sure you’re with the right brother?”Sophia had never had a younger sibling. But this man with his laughing eyes and bright smile... “Are you making me an offer?”

“You’re a bright girl, aren’t you? No pun intended.”

“You’re still waiting for the running and the screaming, aren’t you?”

“He lowered his head toward her, so she could feel his breath warm againsther skin, their mouths only inches apart. “You’re panting for it, aren’t you,Princess?” he murmured.”

“I may have had good reasons. I may have had the best of intentions.But intentions aren’t enough, no matter how good they are. Intentions can lead you to a place where you’re able to make a choice.It’s the choice that counts.”