Chapter 90

"What did you say?" Tristan asked. I cleared my throat and blushed. "It's not that I can't… I mean, can we hold hands?" I stammered. Tristan was stunned for a moment, then broke into a smile. I glanced at him and mumbled, "We… we already kissed…" This time, he heard me loud and clear. "It's true," he said slowly. "We've already kissed, so acting distant now would be silly." I blushed. "It's not like that—" Before I could finish speaking, he pulled me in for another kiss. This time, my mind was clearer. I began to respond, though awkwardly. Something seemed to ignite in Tristan. I felt his body grow warmer as he pressed closer. With the last bit of clarity I possessed, I quickly pushed him away. We both took a step back, trying to calm our rising emotions. "Today doesn't count," I said stiffly. Tristan's gaze deepened. "What doesn't count?" I looked around the room nervously. "I mean, today doesn't count as… touching me," I whispered. Tristan realized what I meant and