The pale light of early morning filtered through the half-open blackout curtains, casting a warm golden stripe diagonally across the lounge's carpet.
Darcy's lashes fluttered slightly as she surfaced from a deep, heavy sleep.
Physical sensation returned before conscious thought. Her back was pressed into the soft sofa cushions, her arm slightly numb from staying in one position too long. And the hand that had gripped hers through the night was still there, fingers interlaced with hers, palm to palm, holding her as if she might disappear the moment he let go.
Warmth seeped steadily through their joined hands.
Darcy shifted her fingertips slightly, trying to pull free. But the man beside her had already opened his eyes.
Asher lay on his side on the chaise, his black suit rumpled from th
