Chapter 55

The air seemed to suspend for a moment. Bethany stood there, her face gradually draining of color. Silas understood what was happening at once. So this was the real problem today. He let out a soft chuckle and said in a low voice tinged with amusement, "It looks like I haven't made myself clear enough." The hand that had been resting on Bethany's shoulder slid naturally to her cheek. With two fingers, he lifted her chin. Under her stunned gaze, he leaned in and kissed her soft, pink lips. There was nothing tentative about it. Moreover, he didn't stop at a fleeting touch. Caught completely off guard, Bethany clenched her teeth and resisted, but a moment later, his tongue gently parted her lips. Warmth spread between their breaths. Bethany froze in place, trembling as she closed her eyes. In an instant, all her senses sharpened, and the sharp scent of cedarwood on him clung to her breath. When the kiss ended, Silas pulled back slightly, but his thumb still lingered against her f