Apocalipstick (Hell in a Handbag Book 1) by Lisa Acerbo (the best e book reader txt) 📗

mom’s.” Jenna thought about how far she’d come to be willing to go on a date tonight with Caleb, the man who intimidated her not so long ago. “It represents the new me.”

“You’re stunning.” His hand covered hers.

Her pulse raced and only intensified when he ran a finger across her cheek. It lingered on her neck for a brief moment before it trailed off. His gaze heated her.

What had started as contentment when their hands met, now turned into a primal emotion. It thrilled and scared her. In need of a distraction, she sipped her wine, all the while hoping Caleb would kiss her.

Instead, he rose, grabbed the plates, and went inside. On his return, he brought forth chocolate cookies.

“Are you serious? Where did you get this? How? I love you.” She blushed at the last statement.

“I’ve told the scavenging parties to keep an eye out for anything chocolate, and they brought back cocoa powder. I knew you had a liking for the stuff, so Emma and I figured out a way to make you a special treat—for all you do with the garden and the farm animals.” Caleb handed her a cookie, then he sat once more. His chiseled legs clad in rough blue jeans extended under the table, his knee making contact with her bare leg.

Jenna’s mouth watered. “This is so delicious. You are my favorite person.”

“I guess the way to a woman’s heart is through her stomach too. There are more back at the inn. We made several batches, figuring most people would enjoy them.”

“You’re amazing.” She leaned over the small table and planted a kiss on his cheek before finishing her cookie with gusto. “So good.”

Caleb picked at his dessert. “Glad you like it.” He stared at his folded hands, suddenly intent.

“A penny for your thoughts?”

“Currency is worthless now adays.” His eyes danced red in the night.

Bewitched by them, Jenna stared. “Tell me anyway.”

She wanted to know this man. He was charming and funny, loving and kind, but whatever else Caleb was— Jenna couldn’t wait to embrace it.

Caleb stretched. “How crazy is it the two of us survived and found each other after everything that happened?”

She pushed out of her seat, sitting on his lap, and cuddling against his chest. “I wouldn’t have it any different.”

“It’s like we were meant to be together. It’s our destiny.” His arms wrapped around her, caressing her through her sheer dress.

“I don’t know if I believe in destiny anymore.”

“I do.”

His lips pressed against her hair, his honey breath making her lightheaded. His hands set Jenna’s skin on fire. They roamed down her back and across her side, dress shifting beneath his fingers.

“I really like your dress, but I would like you out of it more. What do you want?”

“Nothing.”

“Really?” A smile played on his lips. “That’s a disappointment.”

“I only desire what you freely want to give. This isn’t about taking anything.”

“I freely give you my love.” His fingers cupped her chin, so their eyes met. “I want your love freely given. I can’t imagine this world without you next to me.”

Jenna’s mind raced.

Did he really love her after the little time they spent together?

Could he mean it?

His hand moved to caress her shoulder while his lips tickled her neck. “Don’t go quiet on me.”

“I want this to happen.”

When their lips met, her world spun out of control, and she lost herself in the sensation.

Was this desire? Love? It was her first real taste, never having the luxury of experiencing such emotions before.

“You’re beautiful.” Caleb drew her close, tracing the pattern of Jenna’s dress as it danced on her thighs. “Stay with me.”

“Yes.” Jenna trembled at the idea.

“Are you scared?” Their bodies collided. Sparks might have well flown between them and burned off her dress, she was so hot.

She’d never felt anything like this before. Sure, she lacked experience, but this was something, all right. And she wanted to pursue it, at least her lady parts did.

“I’m nervous.” She whispered words against his neck. “But more scared about losing this opportunity to be with you.”

“Are you sure?”

“Absolutely.”

“I love a decisive woman.” He carried her into the bedroom, letting her slip onto the mattress. Joining her, his hands and lips roamed her body, distancing the outside world from this protective cocoon.

He drew close, and she leaned into the kiss. His lips tasted like chocolate and fervor. Irresistible. Caleb worked her dress up and over her thighs, hands roaming her stomach, fingers tracing the line of Jenna’s scar. They separated, and he liberated her from her clothing. She pulled at the buttons on his shirt until there was nothing between them.

He kissed her shoulder, and then slowly trailed down her body, tracing her form with fingers and lips.

She flinched when his lips touched her scars, but then he kissed her navel and murmured, “Exquisite. So perfect.”

He loved all of her, the good and the bad, the beautiful, and the ugly. Caleb could be her future, and she could not deny the need.

His kisses drove any last rational thoughts from her mind, and she moaned. His eyes begged for permission.

“Don’t stop. God don’t stop what you’re doing.” Her voice had a deep, husky quality she’d never heard. To make sure he understood, she shifted on top of him, enjoying his gasp of delight. From her vantage point, she made demands with her hands, her nails raking across his abs. Body relishing his touch, she pressed against him.

“You’ll be the end of me, woman.” He flipped her to the side and was instantly above her.

When their lips met again, her heart thundered.

“Jenna?” Caleb’s need was evident, his body straining. “Are you sure?”

She unbuttoned his jeans. “I want to. I need you. Why are you still dressed?”

Something primal lit in Caleb’s eyes, and they spiraled from red to purple to black. He buried his face in Jenna’s neck. His teeth nipped against her fragile skin. She bucked with wanting under him.

“I’m yours.” Her hands roamed his beautiful body.

“Are you sure?” Caleb stared into her eyes.

“Don’t ask