Gio

“Oh. I never said thank you.” I nearly whispered.

“I would love to hear that.” he flashes a wicked grin.

I laugh for a moment. “I guess, thank you.” I turn to face him and smile softly. “You know, for not making me swim with the fishes.” I gesture with my hands and attempt to mock an Italian accent.

His laughter fills the car. God, I love the sound.

Sexy as sin.

I could listen to that all day.

“And thank you,” I continue, a more serious tone now. “For taking care of Johnny and not letting them beat the shit out of him.”

His laughter settles. “Were you scared of them?”

“Not as much as I am of you.”

He turns his face to meet mine. All sharp lines and angles, but right now he looks soft and approachable.

“That’s probably a good thing.”

Was it a good thing?

Gio walks me to my door when we arrive back in Providence. It’s a weird tradition I’ve become accustomed to. He’s quiet as we approach my apartment, both hands jammed into the pockets of his jeans like he’s trying to prevent himself from reaching out to me.

“I’m sorry.” he finally speaks as my key turns in the door lock.

“For what?” I ask, pausing, and angling my body to face his.

“I’m sorry he hurt you.” he inches close to me, backing me through the open door way until he’s able to shut the door behind us. “But I don’t mind being here for you.” he raises one hand to softly caress my cheek.

“Gio,” my voice comes out strained.

“Annie.” he looks down and then lifts his eyes to meet mine. “I want to kiss you.” His breath touches my neck and I relish the feelings. He’s so fucking close to me.

“Then kiss me.”

I want him. More than ever, I want him to make good on that promise and kiss me.

He leans in close, gently pressing his lips against mine, then just as quick he presses in deeper, using his teeth to nip at my lips opening my mouth. Our tongues war against each other while he fists a handful of my shirt and pulls me in close. Just as quick as the kiss started, he pulls away.

I feel empty without his touch, without his mouth on mine.

“I want to keep kissing you, but you’ve had a rough night and I don’t want to hurt you.”

“You won’t.” I plead.

He gives me a pointed look. “Not tonight. We will, trust me.” he smiles softly. “It’s all I’m going to think about, but not tonight. Not after what just happened.”

I want to appreciate his chivalry, but I also just want his damn lips pressed against mine.

“I’m not broken,” I whisper.

“I know.” he winks. “But I’m not about to take advantage of you.”

“Fine.” I whip around to move away from his. “Are you staying at least?” I ask with a look over my shoulder.

“Are you inviting me?”