Page 29 of Hidden Desire

“We’re watchingSnow White,” Hannah said and smiled up at her.

“That’s great. I love this movie.”

Grace kept her gaze on the TV but jerked when she felt Robert’s fingers against the back of her neck. The heat from his hand felt so good, and she almost groaned when he started to massage it. She could have melted into a puddle, it felt so good. He kept it up for the rest of the movie.

Grace hadn’t realized the movie was over until Robert turned off the TV.

“Let’s get Hannah into bed.”

Grace nodded without looking at him. She took Hannah’shand and let her lead her up to her room. The whole time, she tried to keep her mind on Hannah, but her eyes kept moving toward Robert. Most of the time, he was staring at her. If she could interpret the expressions on his face, she’d feel so much better.

She knew it wouldn’t be long before she knew exactly what was on his mind. She just didn’t know if she wanted to know.

Chapter Thirteen

The two adults bathed and dressed the girl before putting her to bed. Robert read her a short story, and it didn’t take long for Hannah’s eyes to droop.

Robert set the book down and laid his daughter on her back before pulling the blanket over her. He leaned down and pressed his lips against her forehead. “Good night.”

“Good night, Daddy. Good night, Grace,” Hannah mumbled.

Grace smoothed the hair from her face. “Good night. Sweet dreams.”

Robert followed Grace out of the room and silently closed the door. He could tell she was anxious and confused, but the thought of her crying set his protective mode to grow. If he never saw her cry again, it would be too soon.

He reached for her hand and started pulling her toward his … no,theirbedroom, he reminded himself. He released her and shut and locked the door behind him. When he turned, she was already several feet away from him.

He sighed. Robert sat on the edge of the bed and held his hand out. “Come here, Sweetheart.”

He was pleased when she didn’t hesitate. Robert pulled her between his spread legs and gripped her hips.

“What questions do you have?”

He watched her think about it.

“What happened today?” she asked.

“We got married, Sweetheart.”

“I know that. But why?”

“It needed to get done. We’ve wanted to be together, right?”

“Well, yes. But we didn’t have to be married to … you know.”

“No. But I prefer it. Do you hate the idea of being married to me?”

She shook her head. “No, that’s not it. I just have a feeling this isn’t about us being together because we care for each other.”

She was partially right, but he didn’t want to tell her they had to get it done to protect her. “What else would it be about?” He waited for a second. “Do you want me?” he asked.

“Yes.”

“Do you like my hands on you?” He grinned when she blushed.

“Well … yes.”

“I want you, too. Very much. I’ve wanted you since the first day.”