The Darkest Corner of the Heart (The Brightest Light #2)

by Lisina Coney

It’s only now that I realize a haunting truth—Maddie Stevens, my twenty-one-year-old patient, has me wrapped around her little finger.

“I want you to kiss me,” I whisper, no hint of hesitation in my voice. I’ve never asked for the love I think I deserve, but maybe it’s time that I do.

He kisses me like he’s drowning and I’m his mainland.

“Tell me why this feels so right if it’s so fucking wrong.” I pull him away from my neck until we’re eye to eye. “Because it’s not wrong.” He gulps, the conflict so clear in his gaze I want to scream. And maybe I’m not doing myself any favors, but I say, “Just tonight. Take me home tonight and forget about how right or wrong it feels for one night.”

Heat climbs up my cheeks as he hoists me up, and I wrap my legs around his hips on instinct. “Who’s blushing now?” he asks in a raspy, teasing voice, his thumb caressing my reddened cheek. “Tell me what you need, beautiful.”

If I had any doubts before, it’s clear now—Maddie owns me, consumes me, blinds me of all my senses, except for the innate urge to make her feel good, safe, protected, cherished. I would give her the whole world on a silver platter if she asked for it, and that realization terrifies me.

She’s mine. And I don’t want to be anyone else’s.

“Aren’t you scared anymore?” His throat bobs with a heavy swallow, and I find mine is clogged too. “I’ve never been more scared in my life, Maddie.”

Me: I lied. I don’t want to be with you for only one night. His reply doesn’t take longer than a few moments. James: Looks like we’re both terrible liars.

“I don’t know if we’re on the same page,” I admit, my voice so quiet, I don’t know how he even hears it. “How do you see yourself in five years?” “With you.” My heart stops. “Doing what?” When did his forehead come so close to mine? “I don’t care, Maddie, as long as I’m by your side. I know you’re twenty-one and have many things to figure out still, but so do I.”

“My heart is yours,” I whisper against his lips. “And I want your heart, James, all the dark corners that come with it. Will you give it to me?” His charged gaze searches mine. “It’s always been yours.”