Hawke (Must Love Danger Book 1) by Emily Jane Trent

Author:Emily Jane Trent [Trent, Emily Jane]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Camden Lee Press, LLC
Published: 2019-07-01T18:30:00+00:00

Chapter 11

When Hawke looked into Emilia’s eyes, his emotions took over. He cared deeply for her and wanted to protect her. She had been under stress, so it was good to see her relax a bit. The wine had affected her, making her cheeks flushed.

On the stairs, Hawke had caught her before falling and held her in his arms. He’d lingered, not wanting to let her go. She felt good there, so luscious and feminine. When she’d regained her balance, Hawke had released her, but not without some reluctance.

Sitting across from Emilia, he’d taken her hand. Then he’d told her the truth, or part of it—that he wanted to be near her. When she didn’t speak, he feared that he’d said too much. Maybe he’d transgressed beyond the boundaries of friendship.

“Hawke…”

“You don’t have to feel the same.”

Emilia gripped his hand. Hadn’t he just told her that hooking up with him was a bad bet? What was she supposed to say? “You have no idea how I feel.”

That was correct; he didn’t. A woman was a mystery. He understood a few things and had fair success in dating, but knowing what Emilia felt was entirely different. He puzzled that he could have known her for so long without really understanding her.

Hawke was out of his depth; talking would only get him in deeper. He kissed her hand then leaned back. The waitress came by with their meals, saving him from further discussion. He carved a hunk of steak, more for something to do than hunger.

Glancing up, he watched Emilia scoop a bite of red potato. She was adorable, a bit tipsy, so less restrained than usual. He liked her that way, less formal and more open. It made him want to spend more time with her and get to know her better.

He was kidding himself, as he wanted so much more than that. Emilia had asked about marriage, curious why he’d remained single. He had his reasons, which likely didn’t make sense to her. Yet envisioning spending his life with her was a welcoming thought.

He’d forgo his own desire in order to protect her, not only from encroaching danger but from himself. His visions of what could be weren’t going to come to pass. Yet for the evening he would enjoy her company, make her feel safe, and gain pleasure from seeing her relax.

During dinner, Emilia talked less. She ate her meal, which was good to see. More than once, Hawke’s gaze fell to her lips as she took delicate bites. He imagined her mouth on his and had to look away. “The food here is delicious,” she said, so he nodded.

When Emilia’s plate was empty, she pushed it away. “I hadn’t eaten much all day. I hope I didn’t act too silly after so much wine.”

“I like you silly.”

Emilia grinned. “You would.” She tilted her head. “If you’d let me keep drinking, there’s no telling what I might have said.”

“That’s intriguing. I’ll have to remember that for next time.”

“Next time, I’ll pace myself.

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