Free Unbreak Me (Second Chances #1) by Heather D'Agostino

wrapped his arm around her waist as the words of Jason Mraz’s “I Won’t Give Up” floated through the air. As they began to lightly sway to the music, Melanie could feel the fire igniting in her in response to his touch. She tried to relax in his embrace and listen to the song, but her emotions and physical reactions to him were causing a major distraction. Her body trembled slightly as he pulled her close, placing their entwined hands over his heart. His eyes were slightly darker and haunting as they bore into hers. Ragged breaths escaped her lips in soft gasps as she fought for control. The slight brush of his trousers against her bare legs sent sparks rippling through her. What was he doing to her?

    “You’re worth it Melanie. I keep telling myself to slow down, to give you time, and I will. I’ll give you as much time as you need. But know that I want to be with you. I haven’t met anyone like you, and I haven’t felt like this in along time.” He peered down at her, watching the tears well in her eyes. “I just want you to know how I feel. Know that where this goes, it’s all up to you. I’ll follow you wherever you need me to.”

    He continued to sway them to the music as she leaned her head on his shoulder and wrapped her hands more tightly around him. The look on her face was enough to convey her thoughts ; she didn’t need to speak them aloud for him to know what she was feeling. He knew that she felt it too. She was fighting it, but she felt it.

    “I’ll wait as long as you need me to,” he brushed a tear off her cheek.

    As the band finished the song, he could feel her sigh in his arms. She knows how I feel now. The ball was in her court. He knew he could easily fall in love with her, if only she would let him in all the way. He knew it was only one date, but they’d been talking as friends for a while. He silently prayed that she wouldn’t flee after this, but let him show her how happy they could be together.

    As if reading his mind, she raised her head and looked into his eyes. Hers were still wet with tears, but had another look to them. It was as if she was trying to agree with him. Wordlessly she gave her permission with a slight nod. He stepped back slightly and bent his head. As he moved his mouth closer to hers she closed her eyes and tipped her head. When he lightly brushed his lips against hers she felt a shock ripple though her body. Never had a kiss felt so powerful. She had loved Sean, but his kisses had never felt like this. His had always been demanding, with a deep-seated passion, where Austin’s were soft and almost unsure. She could tell he was holding back on her, as if he was almost afraid to push too far. If this kiss brought these kinds of feelings, what would she feel when he finally let loose?

    Austin moved his mouth slowly against hers. She leaned into him pressing her body against his and gasped slightly. As he felt her surrender, he became a little more brazen. When he felt her lips part, he took the opportunity to make a gentle swipe with his tongue. Feeling no resistance, he began to explore her mouth as he ran his hand up her back, stopping at the base of her neck. Sparks burst behind his eyelids when he felt the softness of her body against his. His hands slowly made their way up to cup her cheeks as he released her mouth and brushed her nose with his. He sighed and pulled her into hug.

    “It’s getting late. I think we should probably get you home,” he whispered into her ear.

    She nodded and the two began to walk hand in hand back to his truck.

    When they approached Melanie’s brownstone, Austin hopped out and walked her to the door.

    “I had a great time tonight,” she smiled at him.

    “Me too. I look forward to next time,” he gently rubbed her arm. She took off his jacket and handed it back to him.

    “Until next time,” he whispered as he leaned in and gave her a chaste kiss on the cheek.

    “Yes, until next time,” she turned to