Chapter Twenty-Four
Valentina
Daybreak came in fragments—a shaft of sunlight across the bed, my consciousness flickering awake, the feel of a muscled arm curled around my back, the hum of the air conditioner, cotton sheets against my skin, and a warm male body beside me.
My eyes flew open abruptly. Oh. My. I was curled up against Lucas. In his bed.
Before my brain was fully awake, my hand shifted on his chest, exploring the muscled planes and the dusting of hair. Lucas was all man even when he was asleep.
He stirred, his eyes opening. In the muted light of morning, they were bright and sleepy. Rolling his head to the side, he scrubbed a hand through his hair and smiled.
My heart promptly did a few cartwheels. I knew I was getting in over my head, but the way I felt right now was down
