Exton

I can breathe again.

Gradually letting go, I look Star in the eyes and say, "I want to get this up to my room and get it put away before anything happens to it. Want to come along?"

There. Invitation offered, no harm if she refuses, no embarrassment if she accepts.

She nods and I lead the way. The stairs aren't quite wide enough for us to walk abreast, tiny though she is, so she follows in my wake.

In the room, I open the nightstand drawer and carefully place the drawing inside. "There," I say. "All safe."

Turning back to her, I go to one knee and open my arms. After a second's hesitation, she steps forward. I hold her close, just feeling the magic of her nearness, then pull back - just a little - a question in my eyes.

She tilts her head to one side as if puzzled. I bring my face close to hers, giving her plenty of time to back away. Her eyes shift again, to yellow. A half-smile hovers over her lips and she actually moves forward a little.

My lips brush hers, just the barest touch, and it's electric. I rein myself in tight, because what I really want to do is crush her against me and kiss her till she's breathless. Instead I back up a bit, giving her a chance to break the kiss. She leans in instead, making it last longer, her lips so soft…. She's making a sound, almost like purring, as her lips explore mine.

When the kiss breaks, she steps back and I'm treated to the first real smile I've ever seen on her face. My heart hitches in my chest; she's achingly lovely and now there's no doubt in my mind.

Gods help us both, I'm in love with her.