Fuse, page 23
She squeezed both of his arms as she moved her mouth with his. She’d never kissed a man before, so she copied what he did, moving her mouth in a similar way.
He sucked her bottom lip gently before he pulled away, his face still hovering near hers.
Her entire body felt hot and cold at the same time. Her heart didn’t slow down even though the kiss was finished. She didn’t release her grip on his biceps, comforted by the touch.
His eyes were on hers, taking in every reaction. “How was that?”
“Uh, yeah.” She cleared her throat.
He grinned from ear to ear. “I can never have all of you. But I’ll treasure this piece for as long as I live.”
Her mind was still in a whirlwind from the kiss. A flood of emotions rolled through her, and all she could think about was having that kiss again—and again.
Rush glanced at the trees before he turned back to her. “I really have to go. They’re close.”
Now she wanted him to leave even less.
He cupped her face and kissed her forehead. “We will see each other again.” He backed up with his eyes still trained on her. With a final look of sadness, he turned around and disappeared into the trees.
She remained in place, unable to turn around and face whatever was coming. All she could think about was the loss of her friend, her confidant, and now someone who meant something more.
“Turn around.” A deep voice sounded in her ear. It was both magical and musical.
She was too distracted by Rush to care about anything else. She slowly turned around, her arms by her sides.
A fair man with a bow trained on her emerged from the trees. His arrow was prepared to pierce her right through the heart. When he got a look at her face, his aim wavered slightly. He stopped in his tracks as he stared at her, watching her like she might not be real. “Who are you?”
“Cora.”
Two other elves emerged from the tree line and flanked her on both sides. They removed her pack as well as her sword.
She didn’t fight it because she’d expected it to happen.
“You’re coming with us.” The lead elf motioned for the other two to follow him.
They didn’t threaten or shoot her on sight, and that was a good sign. They didn’t even touch her. All they did was stare at her as they silently commanded her to begin walking.
Once she took the first step, a voice sounded in her ear. I’m always with you, Cora. Even if you can’t see me.
Afterword
Listen, I never, ever thought this dream could come true, that people would love my stories of dragons, elves, magic, super hot dudes, and everything else that happens in my imagination.
Thank you so much for giving Fuse a chance, for seeing my ad, giving a shrug and saying, “Sounds pretty good. I’ll give it a try.” Because that simple act has given me a job, and not just any job, but the best freakin’ gig eva!
Forgive me for asking for anything more, but I wanted you to know that reviews can make or break an author, so if you want to be a champion for my stories, for Cora, Flare/Rush, and Bridge, please show your love in the form of a review on your favorite retailer and Goodreads!
I’m currently writing Ashe, the second book in the series, and another great way to show support is to preorder the next book so I’ll know my fans want me to keep writing! You can Order Now.
Thanks so much!
P.S. I’ve fallen in love with both man and dragon, and I’m so excited to get deeper into this story, of the drama, the adventure, the magic, and most of all, the greatest love story ever.
E. L. Todd, Fuse
