The relief she feels at that is another terrible wave, a comfort and a gentleness she never expected from Gideon--from anyone, but least of all her. There was too much damage between them, too many years of hurt and hate and resentment, but maybe all of that is what could make this possible. She keeps up the sweep of her hand, nodding faintly, her teeth worrying the kiss-flushed curve of her lip.

"You don't have to stay still," she murmurs. "Your hands. You can move." She swallows hard. "I want you to keep touching me."