Cover Story

by Rachel Lacey

“Look at me like I just said something romantic,” Natalie prompted, giving Taylor’s hand a squeeze. “Like you can’t wait to take me home and get me out of this dress.”

Taylor took Natalie’s hand and gave it a squeeze. “I’m here. You’re safe with me.”

“I enjoy all the sapphic staples: Wynonna Earp, Xena, A League of Their Own . . . the new, super-gay one, not the movie from the ’90s.”

Adrenaline burned through common sense, and Natalie closed that remaining inch, pressing her lips to Taylor’s, just a quick kiss, nothing they couldn’t walk away from with their friendly relationship intact. It didn’t last even a second, and yet it brought a rush of arousal that scorched Natalie from her scalp to her toes and had her gulping for air. Fuck.

If you really fell asleep with her last night, you know what that tells me? You feel safe with her, and hallelujah, because it’s about damn time someone made you feel safe.”

“I’m going out to look at the stars. Want to join me?” Taylor rocked back on her heels. Finally. Natalie had been so fiercely protective of her observatory. This felt almost as intimate as being invited into her bed. “Yeah. I’d love to.”

“I’m less afraid when I’m with you.” Natalie turned to look at her, her brown eyes soft and brimming with unspoken emotions. “I’m glad. It’s kind of my job, after all.” She grinned. Natalie returned her smile, shaking her head gently. “It’s more than that. You know that, right? You’re so much more to me than just a bodyguard.”