Page 28 of The Perfect Secret

“And I didn’t know you avoided questions so well.”

She ducked her head. “Sorry.” She shifted away from him and sat sideways, cross-legged on the bed. “I’m touching you because I like you. I’ll admit I was careful so as not to hurt—”

He stopped further conversation by pulling her against him and kissing her. She liked him. It was all he needed to hear. Her mouth was soft and alluring. Relief and desire mingled as the kiss lengthened. He wanted to taste every part of her, but Tesswas in the other room. As if she’d read his mind, she sighed and he dragged his mouth away.

Her mouth was irresistible. It looked delicious and he ran his fingers over her lips, along her jaw, and through her hair, drawing her close. Forehead to forehead, he slowed his breathing.

“I hope that answers your question,” she said with a whisper.

“I think I should ask more of them, if that’s the answer I get.”

“I’ve never been the one reluctant to answer questions.”

He reared back. “What do you want to know?”

She bit her lip. “Lots of things, but Tess is in the other room, and I don’t want to make her feel left out.”

He pulled her close and kissed her forehead. “I love how you care about my daughter’s feelings. Let’s go back and join her. We can talk later.”

When the movie ended, Tess picked up her phone and texted with great speed. Dan shifted uncomfortably in the chair, and for once it wasn’t due to his leg.

Tess came to him. “Dad, Lexi’s having a crisis and wants me to come over. I know I’m supposed to spend the time with you and Hannah, but do you think she’d mind?”

Hannah glanced over her shoulder at them as she walked toward the kitchen. “I know I shouldn’t eavesdrop, but I wouldn’t mind, if it’s what you want. You’re more than welcome to stay for dinner, or leave to be with your friends. Either way is fine with me.”

Tess looked between Dan and Hannah. “Are you sure?”

He swallowed. A few minutes ago he’d wished Tess wasn’t here and now, his wish was answered. Was it okay to accept it? What kind of father wanted his daughter to leave? Did he do his duty and force Tess to stay, with the chance of making her resent his relationship with Hannah, or did he follow his heart and allow her to go? Once again, the big brown eyes won out. “I’mokay with it as long as Hannah is. And as long as Lexi’s parents are home.” It was one evening. It would be okay.

Tess started to roll her eyes, but a look from Dan stopped it. “Thank you, both!” she said.

Hannah came over. “I enjoyed spending the day with you.”

Tess hugged her, and Dan saw the shock and pleasure in Hannah’s expression as she returned the hug.

“Bye, Dad. I’ll be home by ten.” She waved.

Before she left the apartment, Dan yelled, “Don’t forget to text when you get there!”

“So, dinner for two.” Hannah turned toward Dan as he approached.

He pulled her into his arms, his lips met hers and he gave in to all the desires he’d withheld in front of his daughter. His hands slid through her hair, massaging her scalp and when she opened her mouth, he slipped his tongue inside. She tasted sweet and he sighed against her mouth. “I hope Tess leaving doesn’t cause you a problem.”

She pressed her breasts into his chest, her hands sliding around and cupping his ass. “Not at all.”

God, he wanted her. Leaning against the counter, he spread his legs, pulling her between them. She moaned, or maybe he did. He couldn’t tell beyond the rushing in his ears.

The rushing transformed into a buzzing, and he pulled away, heavy-lidded and aching.

Hannah took a step back. “The oven is preheated.”

“What can I do to help?”

“Um…” She spun in slow motion.

“Well, let’s start with what are you making?” he asked.

“London broil, roasted vegetables, and bread.”