She thought for a moment, taking her time to really think about what she needed from him, pushing herself to be rational. He waited, guessing her silence was because she was trying to figure it out.
‘I need us to avoid each other until I can stand being around you.’ She pulled away from him and dried her eyes. Standing up to take position at the mantle as he had previously done and telling herself distance was what she needed to do this, his touch was still too potent. ‘I need you to stop laying hands on me so effortlessly when all your touch does is make me want to crumble and cry.’ She glanced at him, watching him silently agreeing, reluctance on his face. ‘I need to not see you wrapped in her arms wherever I turn.’
‘There’s still nothing between her and I. I promise.’ He cut in quickl
