CHAPTER 13

"By God, woman, you are hard to control."

"You better believe it." She pulled against his grip, but couldn't free her wrists.

He leaned closer. His breath stirred her hair and feathered her brow. "Aya," he whispered her name like a cool breeze.

She shivered. His hypnotic voice tugged at her, lulling her into a sensation of comfort and security.

False security. "I won't let you kill me."

"I don't want to kill you."

"Good. Then let me go."

He lowered his head, his breath tickling her throat. "I want you alive. Warm and alive."

Another shiver zigzagged through her body. Oh God, he was going to touch her. Maybe even kiss her. She waited, her heart hammering in her chest.

His voice whispered in her ear, "I need you."

She opened her mouth, then snapped it shut when she realized how close she'd come to saying yes.

He moved back,