The Impact of You

Jase

I offer Avery one of my T-shirts, and she quietly slips it on over her head, then curls against my pillow in an unspoken agreement that she’s staying the night. Seeing her lying in my bed, swallowed up in my shirt is the best sight ever. Knowing she’s sleeping in my arms tonight, that she’s sharing parts of herself with me despite her fears, does heady things to my protective instincts. I still wish I knew what was going on inside that pretty head of hers, but I know we’ll get there. Tonight was a big step forward. And I won’t soon forget the way she tastes, the sultry sound of her raspy gasps calling my name. Fuck, that was hot.

I turn off the light and join her in the bed, spooning up against her back so I can fold her into my arms. Her hair smells like strawberries and I lean in to kiss the back of her neck. “Just rest. Everything’s going to be okay,” I mumble against her skin.

She lets out a soft sigh and relaxes against me.

I’ll never forget the feeling of panic when I heard that whistle cut through the party. I didn’t even realize she carried it with her; I’d sort of gotten it as a joke.

late, and grab coffee and muffins on campus before I drive her to her dorm. I wouldn’t mind spending the day with her just lounging in my

building, I hold her tightly to my chest and

last night,” she says,

let her go. “Better go write that