Page 23 of The Duke’s Hellion (Duke Dare #3)

“I ’m still shocked that we got married before Joan and James,” Mimi said, stroking Sam’s hair.

There was no fantasy that could beat this.

The most handsome man she had ever met was wrapped around her, physically, emotionally, spiritually.

She knew him better than anyone else, and she loved him.

More than that, he knew her fully and loved her.

He had hauled her off in his arms more times than should be allowed in one lifetime, and he had truly swept her off her feet, starting right after she had rescued Rex. Best choice she ever made.

But facing her fears had always been her best choice, she just never knew the depths of fears she would have to face. With each choice she made, she knew it was right. It was always right to choose love over fear. Fear locked a person down while love freed a person up.

“I’m still shocked that it only took one day for Rex to like you better than he likes me.” He wrapped his hand around her thigh and stroked her. “He’s a traitor.”

“Of course he likes me better. I saved his life.”

“I wouldn’t go that far.”

She swatted his shoulder as he conceded, “All right, you saved his life. He did have a limp for a day.”

“Thank God he’s all right now.”

“After seeing you with that first dog, I never would have thought you would overcome your fears so quickly.”

“Oh, I haven’t completely overcome my fears. But I love Rex. He’s the best dog in the whole world.”

“Of course he is. He’s mine.”

Mimi laughed. “That must be it.” She placed a soft kiss on his cheek. “When are we going to have that rematch on the arm wrestle?”

“I didn’t think that was something we were ever going to do.”

Mimi sat up, pushing his hand off of her. “Of course it’s something we’re going to do. I’ve been practicing.”

“With who?”

“Bixly.”

“What?”

She burst out laughing. “I was just—”

“Very funny, duchess.”

He rolled over her naked frame, their bodies pressing together. “You must think you’re so funny.”

“I do, indeed.”

He covered her mouth with a kiss.

“I could get used to this. Kisses from you. Naked days.” She wiggled her brows at him.

“I won’t have it any other way.”

And they spent the rest of the day in bed, making love.

Oh, and there may have even been a second arm wrestle, but it’s unclear who won that one.