A VALENTINE IN JULY EXCERPT

Excerpt - A Valentine in July

Val waited. The man, still searching, departed further up the dark alley way. Relief washed over him. She isn’t safe yet, a voice in his head warned. Her soft body trembled and he worried about shock. He lowered his head toward her. The soft dark strands of her chin-length hair teased against his face. He sought the tender area by her ear and allowed his breath to touch it. “You’re safe, baby.”

Her breath caught.

“Shh, I won’t let him hurt you.”

The soft curvy body in his arms stiffened and breathing stopped. More warm tears touched his hand. Her reaction lingered then she moved her head slightly so her cheek bone was against his lips. He placed a soft kiss against it. He couldn’t believe she was in his arms and he was awake. Her perfume tickled his nose and he moved his head towards her ear again.

“If I remove my hand baby, can you promise you won’t scream?”

The slightest nod indicated consent. He had his doubts, but he also wondered, if she was real, had she dreamt of him? He slowly lowered his hand and felt her head rest against his shoulder. Not the action of a woman about to attack. He removed his arm from its tight hold on her and her body turned towards him. He wiped the tears from her face. She never flinched. Then again, he could see her better than she could see him.

“I know your voice.”

Val barely heard her, her voice softer than a whisper.

“Yes, baby.”

“You’re real.”

“Yes,” he whispered and cupped her face. He tilted it slightly and lowered his head. Her breath caressed his skin. He brought his lips to hers and melted into the welcome they gave him.