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lip. He shook his head before stepping forward.
    * * * *
    She was the most confusing woman he’d ever met. One minute she would lean into his embrace, and the next instant turn away from a kiss. And that moment in the parking lot worried him. She’d stared at the dark and empty forest as if expecting something to jump out and attack. There had been something in the air. Some strange scent Brendan wasn’t familiar with, but nothing worrisome.
    Still, it couldn’t hurt to take a few passes by her apartment tonight. He’d feel better knowing she was safe. Actually, he’d feel better once he had her with him every night. When he could hold her in his arms, safe and protected from everything that caused her pain. Then his wolf would settle.
    Dinner had reaffirmed his belief that Julie was perfect for him. It hadn’t taken long to draw her out of her shell, and soon after, she’d laughed and traded snarky comments with him. When he was around her, it seemed everything was right in the world. But now, as he drove Julie back to her apartment, she was silent, staring out her window.
    “Penny for your thoughts?” he asked, more to break the silence than anything else.
    “They’re worth way more than a penny.” She laughed and turned toward him. Her chest rose as she took a deep breath, drawing his gaze to her breasts. His hands tightened on the wheel as it shot back to the road. “Why did you kiss me today?”
    “I thought that was pretty obvious.” Taking one hand off the wheel, he threaded his fingers through hers. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw her staring at their linked hands.
    “Brendan, you’re a great guy…”
    “Oh please. Don’t tell me you’re giving me the ‘you’re a great guy’ break-up speech.” Throwing her one of his most charming smiles, he told her without words he wasn’t going anywhere. Nothing she said would change his mind. Brendan found her huff of frustration utterly adorable. Then again, he found everything about her adorable.
    “What break-up? We aren’t together, so there is nothing to break up. And it would never work between us.” Ignoring her words, Brendan picked up their linked hands and brought them to his lips. Julie was running scared. But he held enough patience and stamina to outrun her. He was a wolf, after all.
    Pulling up behind the bookstore, Brendan got out and rounded the car to hold Julie’s door open. He placed his hands on either side of her as she stood, and leaned in, looking deep into her eyes.
    “Why don’t you come by my place tomorrow for dinner? I’ll cook.”
    “Brendan, have you listened to a word I’ve said? A relationship between us isn’t practical.”
    “I make a mean salmon dish. You like salmon, right?” He couldn’t help but smile as she blew out yet another exasperated breath and rolled her eyes.
    “You are unbelievably stubborn!”
    “I’ve learned stubborn people tend to get what they want. And Julie–” Brendan leaned in until they were mere inches apart. “I want you.” Flames of desire leapt into her eyes, pulling him forward as he leaned in for a kiss.
    Right before his lips touched hers, she whispered his name. A plea. She couldn’t fight the attraction between them any more than he could.
    “Just one taste,” he whispered before closing the remaining distance. She leaned into him, and his tongue swept inside, claiming her mouth. His hands clutched her waist, pulling her closer as her fingers wrapped around his neck and threaded into his hair. Sinking into her softness, he marveled at the feel of her in his arms. She was everything feminine and delicate, yet he knew from experience she could be strong and determined when it counted. And she was all his, just as soon as he could convince her.
    Breaking off the kiss, Brendan rested his forehead against hers, struggling to even his breathing. He reached up and swept a lock of hair behind her ear, lingering to trace the rim with a finger.
    “Do you know how