The Switch by Diane Whiteside

• Read an Excerpt

Read an Excerpt

Beth stepped in closer to him and traced his jaw with a single fingertip. Such a strong face, with eyes set under level brows, a straight blade of a nose, a slash of a mouth. The upper lip was tightly controlled above the more sensual lower lip, ready for laughter before cynicism.

"Were you in the military?" she asked. Only this moment mattered, not what anyone else said.

"I was a Ranger for eleven years."

"Did you wear a helmet?" She traced his temple back to his ear, finding the faint prickle of freshly shaven skin.

"Yes, ma'am." His heavy eyes watched her, questions kept back.

"How far down did the helmet come on your forehead." He marked the line with the edge of his hand.

"On the sides of your face?" He showed her with both hands. She caught his wrists, keeping the frame around his eyes and mouth.

"Viking," she breathed, recognizing him from pictures in museums and old textbooks. From childhood dreams. He blinked in surprise but had the sense to stay still, letting the chemistry build between them.

"Viking," Beth said again and kissed him. She traced his lips with her tongue, exploring their shape and strength, until his mouth opened under her gentle urging.

"Viking warrior," she breathed into his mouth, just before hers took possession of him. They kissed slowly, learning each other's tastes and textures, until she pulled back. His hand dropped from her waist while she continued to caress his cheek. Sean took a deep breath and let his eyes close. She fondled his neck, enjoying the difference between his masculine strength and its innate vulnerability, laid bare by his severe haircut. She gradually remembered her self-discipline.

"Have you ever wanted to worship a woman, Sean?" she queried huskily.

"Yes. Hell, yes," he groaned.

"Care to try it here and now, with me?" He nodded, a pulse pounding in his jaw. He was still frozen, outlined by the rippling firelight.

"Of course, as the goddess present, I get to say what I want and you get to do it. Can you manage that?"

"I can do whatever you say, Beth," he vowed, his eyes blazing blue fire.

"Good lad," she sighed. "I'd rather like to be worshipped tonight. Come over here."