When in Rome

by Sarah Adams

“I was born with an enormous need for affection, and a terrible need to give it.” —Audrey Hepburn

Rae is nothing but a character I hide behind, because I learned from a young age that faking confidence is the only way to make it through this business.

Noah is the blanket fort you used to make and hide in as a kid. So warm and reassuring.

But here’s the thing, I’ve dated three guys in my adult years: an actor, a model, and then my last boyfriend was a singer, too. They were all men that magazines and tabloids drooled over, saying they were some of the sexiest and most successful men out there. And yet, I never once experienced as strong of an attraction to any of them like I have to Noah Walker.

No one can accuse this man of not being honest. He’s all blunt and zero sugar. He’s fantastic.

For a split second, I thought someone slipped something in her drink and I was about to flip every table in that bar until I figured out who did it.

He’s so good—this man. I can’t imagine how I’ll be able to walk away. How did you do it, Audrey?

Over these last few days, I feel parts of me coming alive again. Like when you’ve been sitting on your foot too long and then finally walk around. It’s tingly and uncomfortable at first, but then you shake it back to life and can move normally again.

We find that unique rhythm of kissing that feels like surrendering to a riptide. It’s dangerous and there’s nothing to do but let it build and carry you wherever it wants.