The roar of the bike filled the air as they sped down the backroads, wind whipping through Salem’s hair, the fading sun painting everything in shades of gold and amber. She clung to River from behind, her arms snug around his torso, feeling every steady breath he took beneath her palms.
Then, as the road straightened, River slid one hand down from the handlebars, his palm finding her thigh. The touch was firm, grounding, and it sent a shiver racing up her spine. His thumb brushed small, lazy circles against her skin through the denim, and Salem’s breath hitched, a fluttering warmth blooming deep in her chest.
The contact wasn’t just teasing—it was reassuring. His way of telling her he was there, even with the wind and distance between them.
Salem leaned in closer, pressing herself again
