Chapter 49: A Beautiful Soul

Heart still racing, Jenny stared after him. She could still feel his kiss, the tenderness of his lips on hers, the grit of his five-o’clock shadow on her skin. She also felt a sense of panic.

He doesn’t feel the same way about me. He thinks I’m dirty.

“I’m so sorry, Jenny.” He didn’t look her way, staring off into the distance instead. “I didn’t mean for that to happen.” He took another few steps further away and scuffed softly at the ground. “Dammit,” he swore softly.

Her pulse pounded in her ears and she pressed her palms into her thighs in an attempt to stop them from shaking. This was it. She had to try.

“C-Cole?” Her own voice sounded strange to her.

Slowly, Cole turned toward her, eyes wide.

Emboldened, she tried again. “Cole?”

“Jenny.” He returned to where she still sat, sinking down beside her. “You’re talking.”

She nodded. “I—I’ve been thinking I’m ready to try.” Frowning, “Are you mad at me?”