Page 47

“Oh, I would say so.” Kim’s expressive dark eyes twinkled, and she flashed a tender smile. “So far beyond, in fact, that we may as well be in a different universe.”

“That’s right,” Cody repeated. She had to say this now, or it would kill her not to. “I would also tell you that this experience with you, both physical and emotional, is incredibly intense for me.”

“Wouldsay,” Kim prompted gently. “Is there a‘but’here? Or a problem?”

“No problem,” Cody answered quickly. ”But… it also isn’t the first time. I have felt this deep and connected before. This is how it was for me with Emma. Every single time. All the time.”

“Oh.” A touch of uncertainty flared in Kim’s gaze. Maybe a slice of reluctance too. “Of course. Cody, I didn’t mean… You know, I understand. I know I’m not your first.”

“Please, hear me out.” Cody held her back gently when she felt her start to withdraw. “Sorry, Kim, I’m really not very good at this.”

“It’s okay. Take your time.”

“It’s just unexpected for me to feel this way again. I never thought I would. And I know it’s very early between us. Our first time, and all that. I don’t want to make it heavy.”

“It’s alright.”

“It feels so familiar with you. So natural and… Really good. Right. I just…. I needed to tell you that.”

Kim settled against her. She cupped her cheek in a soothing gesture.

“I’m glad you did tell me. I feel the same way, you know? Intense and powerful, deeply connected. Not heavy at all. Did you think I would not want to hear you tell me how you feel?”

“No. I don’t know.” Cody sighed and chuckled at the same time. “Feels like a big admission. Hell, it’s hard to think straight right now.”

“I understand that too.”

She did... Cody watched her eyes glisten with emotion, her own tears probably not far off. She kissed her softly, tasted a hint of sex and passion on her lips, and chuckled again with a surge of joy and happiness.

“You know, you’re very hot for a lawyer.”

“Oh, thanks.” Kim smirked in reply, instantly matching the vibe. “You’re not bad yourself for a cop. How did you enjoy my dominant streak? Oops…” She grinned. “I felt you twitch on my leg.”

“I would and do have to say, I kinda love the way you grab my hair to keep me in place when you kiss me.”

“Mm…” Kim purred. “More than kinda.”

“And now I gotyouto twitch.” Laughing, charmed, Cody disentangled herself. “I need a break, though. Some food. What time is it?”

“Just after ten. And yes, good idea. I’d like a shower and a drink.”

“We can order in if you like. How about pizza? My shout.”

“Well...” Kim flashed her an amused look over her shoulder as she led the way into the bathroom. “I like pizza, yes. But I can do better.”

Though her beloved pizza would always remain at the top of her list of favorite foods, Cody was pleased to make room next to it for Kim’s offering. Wholesome, nutritious food, the kind that tasted even better due to the fact that it was home-cooked by her. On the menu tonight were tender strips of grilled chickenbreast marinated in Cajun spices, served with wild rice and asparagus heads, also perfectly flavored, and a fresh green salad assembled on the spot. To go with the meal, Kim opened a bottle of chilled white wine. They sat outside on the balcony, with the sounds of the ocean in the distance.

“Cheers, babe.”

“Cheers.” Cody clinked her glass lightly against hers. “You know how you went into the water this morning? To cleanse and relax?”

“Yes,” Kim smiled in reply.

“This is exactly how I feel right now.”

chapter 16

‘I never thought I’d feel this way again’.