His fingers touched her shoulders, so lightly, then drew down, across her shoulders, down her upper arms, elevating goosebumps in their wake earlier than he trailed them returned up.
"Diane …" His voice was husky and gruff, and lower than usual. She heard him swallow. "I prefer to do this right," he rasped. "I don't prefer to rush, and I do not want to risk being interrupted, and—"
"Neither do I," she whispered, however tipped her head returned towards his chest. "I just…"
"I know. Me too."
They stood that way for a long moment, each of their breaths audible in the sit back night air of the house.
"How long will it take… the hike?" she requested reluctantly.
"A couple hours at least."
Diane swore.
"But when we get there, we'll be completely by myself and… it's beautiful, Diane . I
