“Yes. I have a perfectly good house right next door.” She stopped to glare at him.
He ran his fingers through his hair. “This is unbelievable.”
Jesse took a deep breath and lowered his voice. “Honey, husbands and wives live in the same house. It’s the way it’s done once you’re married.” He enunciated each word as if talking to a small child. “I know you don’t want me controlling your life, and I won’t. But I think it’s only reasonable to expect us to live in the same damn house.”
“Don’t swear. I have four children living next door. I can’t just leave them alone.”
“They’re not alone. As you pointed out, we’re right next door. My God, there are houses right here in this very town so big that the family bedrooms are further apart than our two houses. And Michael and Rachel are almost adults.”
Tori sighed and plopped down on the couch. “Can we talk about this tomorrow? I’m so tired, and I need to get up in a few hours.”
“Ah, Tori, that’s something else we need to discuss.”
Her head snapped up. “What?”
“I don’t think you should be getting up so early to bake and then spend the whole day in school while you’re in this condition.”
“That’s none of your business!”
He bent his head slightly forward. “That’s not exactly true, given that ring on your finger, and that baby in your belly. You’re so tired all the time and sick in the morning and night. I think you should have Rachel take over the baking, at least for a while. That would give you more rest before you have to be at school.”
“No.” She shook her head. “Rachel can’t do that all by herself and keep up with her school work. Besides, there are only a couple more weeks before school stops until September.” She moved to get up. “Now I’m going next door to sleep.”
Jesse pulled her to him. His wrists draped over her shoulders and when he leaned his forehead to rest against hers, his breath fanned over her face. Tiny shivers flecked her skin.
“You are sleeping here, in my house, in my bed. If that’s being too bossy, then so be it.” He picked her up and carried her to the bedroom.
Unable to speak, she concentrated on breathing until he placed her on the bed. She sank into the soft mattress. Wide eyed, she tried to scoot off, but he laughed playfully and wrapped his arm around her waist. With a quick tug, he pulled her to him, and then covered her mouth with his own warm one.
Her weak attempt to push him away failed when he took the kiss deeper and filled his hand with her full breast. She slid her arms around his neck, playing with the silky hair that hung over his collar until he groaned, the sound ripped from deep inside.
Tori couldn’t find the strength to resist him. He controlled her with his kisses and she sagged into him, lost.
He took off her spectacles and unbuttoned her dress. His fingers smoothed o
ver her skin in a shivery caress when he pushed it off her shoulders, stopping at her waist. She sucked in a gulp of air, breathing in his scent that she remembered so well. Although sensitive due to her condition, her nipples were already firm, erect, aching for more of his touch.
He grazed her neck with his firm lips, biting lightly, then soothing with feathery kisses. Her lips parted. He took the opportunity to claim her, thrusting his tongue deep inside. Warmth spread, awakening her sensitive parts and pooling in the throbbing spot between her legs.
No restrictions now that these wonderful feelings were hers to enjoy without guilt. She unbuttoned his shirt and traced her hands over his broad chest, circling his nipple, tugging on the crisp hairs. He felt so strong, solid beneath her fingers. The ache inside her grew. Muscles rippled beneath her fingers when he pulled her closer. She closed her eyes, savoring the feelings as his hands explored her body. Heat ignited where their bodies touched. When he bent his head to circle her nipple, she pulled him closer.
His welcoming hands freed her of her confining dress, which he tossed over the back of a chair. Cool air rushed over her. With practiced movements, he untied her shoes, slipped them off, and slowly dragged each stocking down.
“Jesse.” Her body quaked as he kissed his way up her legs. She burned for this man.
The slight scrape of his rough jaw against the sensitive skin of her belly ignited her. A jolt of sensation raced to her core. She wanted him now. Ready to beg, she tried to speak, but her mouth wouldn’t cooperate.
“Let me show you how good it can be.” He eased up her body, staring in her eyes, his darkened with desire. Warm breath raised goose bumps on her sensitive skin as his tongue swirled around her ear.
She inhaled his scent, then licked the skin on his chest. He tasted salty.
Her shaky fingers tried to unbuckle his belt to push his pants down his thighs so she could touch him, pleasuring him as he pleasured her. Not moving fast enough, Jesse covered her hands with his and shoved his pants down, kicking them off. Then he removed her chemise and drawers.
“Umm.” Tori moaned. If she got any hotter, she’d explode. Only he could help her. Only his hands and mouth held the key to her release. She writhed beneath his hands, begging him with her body to not stop.
She needed him, needed to feel the weight of his body pressed against hers. He returned to her, his full lips covering her mouth. Jesse pulled away, leaning on both elbows. Their eyes met and held. “You take my breath away, darlin’. I want you so much. So much.” His hoarse voice sent shivers across her skin.
“I want you, too. I need to feel you.” Her insides fluttered at her admission.