Valka
Toes wobbling on the ladder, I reach for the top section of the shelf to take the book of bawdy tales. My fingertips stop just shy of the wood. Groaning, I reach even higher, ignoring the ladder's squeal. Just as my hands finally reach the book's spine, the ladder tips sideways and I fall with a yelp.
But I land against something solid. Warm. Unyielding. Breathing.
Strong arms lock around my waist, one bracing my back, the other secure around my thighs as he steadies me effortlessly. My breath snags as my eyes lift.
Violet. Bright. Heavy with mischief. And far too close. "How quaint," Lucien murmurs softly.
My pulse trips all over itself. I'm still suspended against him, his fingers splayed hot along my skin like they were meant to be there.
He isn't letting go. And I--I'm not exactly trying to move.
