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“You promised,” she said, stiff and breathless, knowing what was coming. “Yes,” he agreed, unmoving. “I did. So this time I’m asking your permission.” The sound of his breathing seemed suddenly deafening in her ears. “I want to kiss you again,” he said quietly. “Will you let me?” She didn’t answer because she could not speak. She breathed steadily through her nose, willing herself to say no and mean it. She clamped her eyes shut, fighting her desire, fighting her fear, fighting the knowledge that her entire future might hinge on whatever she did next. He bent his head to hers and whispered against her cheek. “Will you?” She meant to shake her head back and forth, but found herself nodding instead. He didn’t move for a moment, and she nearly bolted. But then his thumb lingering on h
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