There are no words spoken as he turns on the water and lowers my feet to the tiles in his walk-in shower. The warm water pours down my back, and he soaps up his hands and washes all of his war paint from my body. I have never showered with a man before, and it’s such a sensual experience. I want to do the same to him, but I can’t seem to move. Having his hands all over my body with so much care is doing something to me that I don’t want to stop.

It's like every time he touches me, he unlocks just a little more of my soul.

The one I thought I buried forever, but now I’m starting to realize that wasn’t the truth.

I was just waiting for the right man who I could trust, and they would know how to dig enough to find it.

They say flowers bloom in the spring. Well, maybe Forrest is my spring.

Time will tell.

Chapter Thirteen

FORREST

Having Harper in bed, in my arms, is what I’ve been longing for. I’m so relieved that I don’t have to hide being with her every night any longer.

Protecting her was worth the short-term pain she felt until she understood why I did what I did. Now I can listen to her breathing and not worry that she’s about to wake up.

To be honest, I doubt Harper will be waking for hours. Marathon sex will do that to a person.

For someone who has an issue with anyone hugging her, she is clinging to me so tightly. I know it’s not from a nightmare because she would be moving and talking. This is just her hanging on to the peace that my arms bring her in her sleep. Now I just need her to find that same calmness when she is awake.

I won’t push her, but I’m not holding back anymore either.

There will be a balance for her, and I’m determined to find it.

As much as I love listening to her sleep, my body reminds me that I don’t have to lie awake anymore. Sleep overtakes me, and I’m sure I drift off with a smile on my face.

* * *

“Morning, pookie.” I kiss the top of her head as she starts to stir.

“Call me that again and I will knee you so hard in the balls you won’t be able to walk,” she grumbles from where her head is lying on my chest.

“Not a morning person. Noted.” I can’t help but laugh. This game is getting good, and if she thinks I’m about to stop, then think again.