Maya

I want to kiss Richard until his lips are swollen and the sad look in his eyes is replaced by lust. Part of me wants to go back in time and protect that little boy who wanted nothing more than to dream and draw and be who he was without being attacked for it. I’d do anything to shield him from his father’s ugly words—a result of him hurting just as much as his sons.

I tighten my arms around his body. His ocean breeze scent washes over me as his head drops to the curve of my neck. He releases a shaky breath.

I’m not sure what this is but it feelsright.

His heart pounds against his chest at an unsteady pace. “I didn’t tell you this for you to pity me.”

“Then why?”

“Because—” His voice trails off.

I give him the time he clearly needs. We…