His tongue darted between my lips, and I welcomed it, tangling mine with his in a rhythm that could only be ours. I’d never experienced anything like this. It was a mixture of adrenaline and homecoming, of racing hearts and peace. It was like everything else about Ford: a potent and powerful juxtaposition.

Ford’s hand slipped beneath the fall of my hair, his fingers tangling in the strands. As his mouth broke away from mine, I let out a mewl of protest. He kept his hand at my nape, studying my face as if looking for signs of panic.

My chest heaved as I willed my heart under control. “That was—”

“I don’t think there are words to describe that kiss, Trouble.”

I bit my lip as heat hit my cheeks. “But you stopped.”

Ford chuckled. “There’s only so much torture I can take when I know I’m not going to be able to have you. And as much as I hate to say it, my ribs and arm aren’t up for what I want from you.” His gaze roamed over my face. “If you want the same.”

The roaring in my ears was back. This was a moment I’d dreamt of since I’d first realized that boys might be more than schoolyard playmates and cootie-filled classmates. My heart seemed to rattle in my chest. I was at war with myself. I wanted Ford more than my next breath, yet I was terrified. “I want you. Us. But—”

Ford’s hand tightened in my hair. “But what?”

“But I think we should take things slow.” The words came out in a rush, but I felt relief as soon as they were released. Slow and steady. That’s what I needed, a chance to ease into things. I wanted to laugh, like I could ease into anything where Ford Hardy was concerned. My heart and soul were already tumbling down an incline I doubted I’d have any control over.

His lips twitched. “I can do slow.” He swept his mouth against mine in a barely-there kiss. “As long as I can touch you.” Another brush. “Kiss you.” His hand teased the back of my neck. “Feel your skin.”

I was practically panting. I scrambled to my feet. “We should get out of here.” If I stayed locked up in this house alone with Ford much longer, I’d end up naked and making poor life choices.

Ford’s eyes twinkled. “Can’t resist me, huh?”

I grabbed a pillow and hurled it at him, but Ford batted it away with his good hand. I picked up another one and pointed it at him. “You have a real problem with self-esteem.”

“I really do.” He pushed to his feet, closing in on me. “Kiss it better?”