“I’m going to kiss you so that guy across the street doesn’t get any ideas about coming over here to borrow some sugar the moment I drive away.” He moved closer, sank his fingers into her hair and gently around her skull. Slowly he pulled her toward him. “Okay?”

Her eyes flicked to the side and she held tense for a fraction of a second before nodding slightly.

“Try not to run away screaming.”

A smile touched her mouth, but now her dark eyes were on his lips.

He shifted a little closer, wishing for the millionth time he didn’t have a cast on his dominant left arm. He rested his left hand lightly on her hip.

Slowly he lowered his mouth to meet hers, a quick brush of lips. She blinked in response and swallowed. Her lips parted slightly and her gaze stayed on his mouth. He couldn’t resist another taste so he lowered his head again. She raised herself up on tiptoe, her breasts brushing his chest and making his IQ drop thirty points. He nipped her bottom lip and then went a little deeper. He almost fell over when her tongue glanced off his bottom lip. Then her hands slid up his chest and around his neck. He pulled her closer, kissing her properly now. Feeling the rush of his body’s reaction. Feeling the pent-up desire that heated his skin and made his pulse pound. A quiver ran over his entire frame as he put his left arm around her waist and pressed her against the wall. Pain shot to his elbow and he pulled away, clenching his jaw in irritation. Not at the pain, but at the fact he’d forgotten about his broken arm and that they were in a semi-public space. He’d let his guard down and he was supposed to be helping to protect her.

He let her go, reached out with his good arm to cup her chin. He lowered his lips one last time, telling himself they may as well make it look good. This time, when he pulled away, he didn’t have to fake the regret that flooded his whole being.

“Is he still watching?” Yael asked softly.

He glanced to the side and shook his head.

“Good.”

“Yeah.” He was such a fucking liar.

She swallowed, the delicate line of her throat rippling.

“Keep the doors locked. Call me any time if you’re worried or nervous about the slightest thing. Remember.” He held her dark gaze. “Your instincts are your best protection. Better than any security system or weapon. Trust them.”

She stared at him, seemingly rendered mute. Because of the kiss? It had been pretty incredible. Or was she terrified of him because he’d basically forced himself on her? He took a step back watching her carefully.

He didn’t want to freak her out. “And anytime you need a fake boyfriend I am here for you.”