“You trust me, right?” he asked.

She wasn’t sure. “Yes.”

“And I can trust you, correct?” He drove onto the Interstate.

She mulled over the question for several miles. It was true. He could trust her, even though she couldn’t tell him everything. “I won’t let you down.” It was the truth. That had to count, right?

“I know,” he murmured. He exited the Interstate and drove down the street, his free hand more than capable on the steering wheel. Finally, they pulled into the parking area, and he shut off the engine. “I enjoyed our dinner. You’re a lovely date.” He opened his door and pulled her across the seat to lift her against his chest before shutting his door. Ducking his head over her and shielding her from the rain, he leaped over a mud puddle.

She bounced up, and he caught her, running faster.

Exhilaration swept through her, and she manacled her arm around his neck, laughing as he ran into the building and up the two flights of stairs as if she weighed nothing. Finally, he set her on her feet at her door.

Her hair fell down around her shoulders, barely wet. Her breath came in gasps, and nothing could’ve prevented the smile that curved her mouth. “You are seriously strong and in good shape.” She laughed. She wasn’t exactly a lightweight, and he wasn’t even close to being out of breath. This side of Raider, the fun side, was way too appealing, and she was getting caught up in the fantasy of being with him.

“I do all right.” He brushed a wild curl away from her temple before gently grasping her chin.

The amusement inside her popped and dissipated, leaving electricity arcing through her. “Raider.” She had to tell him everything. Keeping secrets was too hard for her.

His eyes darkened. “Yeah.” Lifting her chin, he lowered his head, and his lips touched hers. Firm and warm, his mouth curved against hers, and then he kissed her. Slow and sweet, seeking, his muscled body backing her against the door at the same time.

Heat pooled in her abdomen, sliding desire through her veins to brush every nerve into languid awareness. She let a soft sigh escape her, and she levered herself up on her toes, kissing him back. She curled her hands over his strong shoulders, pressing against him, opening her mouth.

He took advantage, kissing her deeper, brushing his tongue against hers.

She jerked at the contact, wanting more. Needing more.

He gentled the kiss and released her mouth, leaning back. “Ah, Irish. You’re a sweet thing, aren’t you?” The Southern drawl came out low and hungry.

She shivered. Wow. Just holy wow. “Um.”