Jensen’s hand rests on the small of my back. “Micah went all out decorating this place for you.”
“I can’t believe this!”
He laughs at my enthusiasm.
Two steps lead up to a wooden deck, supporting a large hot tub. A blue light illuminates the water. Steam rises as I ascend the steps, and humidity fills the space around us. It’s a winter wonderland outside, snowflakes falling steadily from the night sky.
“This cabin is amazing.”
He brings me against his chest. “I’m glad you like it,” he breathes, tucking a loose strand of hair behind my ear. “As long as you’re happy, I’m happy.”
“Damien said it’s ours, but who does it really belong to?”
Clenching his jaw, he remains silent for a moment. “It belonged to his parents,” he says.
“Past tense,” I say, inhaling an anxious breath.
He nods.
“He’s never told me about them.”
“I don’t blame him.”
Frowning, I avert my gaze to the water. “What happened to them?” I question, trying my best to sound casual.
“Quinn—”
“Sorry,” I blurt out. “You’re right. I shouldn’t pry.”
“Don’t ask him,” he warns.
Locking my eyes with his, a sudden feeling of concern washes over me. “Don’t?”
“Don’t,” he sternly repeats. “I’m sure he will tell you eventually. When he’s ready.”
“You’ve never told me anything about your parents, either.”
His lips part, and he weakly grins. “I don’t have parents.”
My heart immediately sinks. “Jensen,” I apologetically rush out. “I’m so sorry—”
He brings me into him once more, and my body dissolves against his. “It’s fine,” he reassures me. “I don’t mind. You have the right to ask questions.”
Wrapping my arms around his waist, I breathe in his heady cologne. “It’s just that, you know everything about my family,” I begin. “And I know nothing about yours.”
“I don’t have a family, Quinn,” he lets out, and tears fill my eyes. The moment he notices, his hold on me tightens. “It’s fine. Really. I’m just not sure it would be the best conversation for Christmas Eve. It’s pretty depressing.”
“I don’t want to make you talk about it.”
“You’re not forcing me,” he objects, cupping my face with his hand. “I’ve never been asked about them. Never had anyone to tell.”
“You know you can talk to me, right?”
“You’re so selfless,” he seductively breathes. “So kind. Caring. And so, so beautiful. You know that?”
His strong hands grip my waist as my hands find their way to his chest. His rippled muscles tense beneath my touch, and his breathing becomes shallow. Grazing my fingertips over his broad shoulders, I pull him closer, lifting my chin to gaze into his piercing eyes.
Grabbing the back of my neck, he leans closer. “You’re perfect,” he whispers, tightening his hold on me as I melt into his arms. “So goddamn perfect.”
Jensen grabs a fistful of my hair, tilting my head. This grants him more access to kiss down my neck, his warm lips lingering over my collarbone. A quiet moan escapes me and my nipples strain against my lacey bra. Clenching my legs together, I attempt to ease the ache settling between my thighs. Although, I’m desperate for his touch.