Chapter 40

Lori couldn't believe she'd come so quickly, leaving her partner behind. Eric's easy manner indicated that he didn't mind. He adjusted their positions so she lay beside him on the bed. "You okay?"

Lori licked her lips, trying to speak. "Never better," she finally managed.

He tossed his glasses onto the night table and reached behind the clock, fumbling for a moment. Then she heard the unmistakable sound of tearing foil. Thank God, he'd remembered protection, Lori thought. She'd forgotten all about it. She watched in rapt fascination as Eric sheathed himself and she felt a brief moment of fear. He was a lot bigger than anyone she'd ever been with. Was this really going to work?

Protected, Eric turned back to Lori, propping himself up on one elbow beside her. Then, as if he understood her insecurity, he leaned over and gave her a kiss so full of tenderness and passion it nearly brought tears to her eyes. By the time they came up for air all her fears were forgotten.