Delicate Escape (Sparrow Falls, #2)

by Catherine Cowles

“Because everything about you screams that you’ve been fighting alone for too damn long, Thorn. You need someone to help carry the weight for a little while. I might not be able to fix everything, but I can help carry the load.”

“Try me,” I whispered against her neck. She shook her head but burrowed into me. “I don’t want you to look at me any differently.” I slid one hand up and down her back as the other stroked her hair. “Did you murder someone in cold blood?” “No,” she whispered. “You steal from the elderly?” I asked. “No.” “Hurt a puppy?” “Of course, not.” Thea’s voice was barely a rasp as she spoke. “Then I’m not going to see you differently.”

“You’re crying.” I shook my head. “I’m happy.” He frowned down at me as if not totally believing my words. I wrapped my hands around his waist and squeezed. “Happy,” I echoed. “And you gave that to me.” Shep’s rough hands cupped my face. “You gave it to yourself. I just love being a piece of the puzzle.”