There’s nothing wrong with a harmless little crush, right?

And who better to crush on than the gorgeous man next door?

The one who would never look twice in my direction.

Except he does.

The first time he pins me in place with his dark gaze, I’m rendered speechless.  The first time he lays his hands on me, I melt.  And the first time he takes me, well…I fall to pieces, wondering if I’ll ever be the same again.

Everything about him screams danger.

And yet I’d be lying through my teeth if I didn’t admit that was part of the attraction.

Chicago is supposed to be a new beginning for me.  A chance to find my bearings and live again.  The man next door is the last person I should be getting involved with.

And yet, here I am.

A moth dancing too close to the flickering flame, hoping I don’t get torched.

Protecting What's Mine was created by Jennifer Sucevic, an EGlobal Creative Publishing signed author. 

Protecting What's Mine

Standing by the railing that overlooks the city, I breathe deeply as the cool night breeze ruffles my hair.  Willis Tower rises above the other lit-up building.  I take in the skyline, admiring the breathtaking beauty surrounding me.  I've seen the lake from my patio at night.  But this is something altogether different.  The bright city lights stretch like grasping fingers into the distance.  I realize just how much I missed Chicago.


Matteo stands behind me with his front lightly pressed into my back.  His arms are loosely wrapped around me.  His warm breath fans against the side of my face.  As always, his proximity sends shivers scampering down my spine.


Slowly he runs the tip of his nose across my neck.


I struggle to resist the urge to close my eyes and roll my head back, allowing him greater access.  I want to feel his mouth kissing and nipping my skin.  Instead, I focus on how the brightly lit buildings punctuate the dark sky.


I try not to lose myself in him too quickly.


Chapter 36: Grace