Protecting His Windflower (A Spirit Hunters Series Novel Book 1) by Temperance Dawn (best black authors .txt) 📕

dating anyone. You’re really attractive and incredibly kind. I’m actually a little surprised you’re single.”

Liam smiled wide at her compliment. It wasn’t lost on him that he was good looking. He knew women were drawn to him. He’d seen women trip over their own feet in an attempt to scramble over to him whenever he went out with Trey and Luke. But the truth was, he was never into dating women just for the fun of it. He’d had a couple of serious relationships throughout the years, and he had cared for the women he had dated. But nothing ever came of the relationships with them. There was never a deep connection. One in which he believed only true soulmates could share.

His parents always said they were soulmates, that there was no one else on Earth meant for them. That’s what Liam was waiting for. For the one person who knew every inch of his soul, and whose he knew in return.

Emily’s lips parted as if she were about to speak, but nothing escaped them at first. After a beat, she nodded and said, “I would really like that.”

Relief swept over him. The breath he had been holding escaped in a whoosh, and he caught Emily smiling at him. Her smile was warm, kind, and genuine. “Okay, then. Can I come by here around eleven?”

“Eleven is perfect.”

Standing, Liam held out his hand to help Emily off of the sofa, and he felt a subtle tremble when their skin touched. He held her hand the entire eight and a half steps to the door. Yes, he counted them and savored every moment.

“I’ll be right upstairs, Em. If you need anything, please just come up and knock. Okay?”

“I will.” Liam felt her squeeze his hand slightly, and he squeezed back in return. “Thank you again for this morning. And for fixing the window. And lunch. It was delicious. I really appreciate it.”

“It’s not a problem.” Liam waited for a heartbeat. Needing to soak in the sight of her as much as possible before leaving.

Reluctantly, he let go of her hand and instantly missed the warmth. “I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Enjoy the rest of your day, Liam.”

“You too, Emily.” Once again, he stayed planted outside her door until the sound of the lock engaged.

Seven

Liam had come by Emily’s flat right at eleven o’clock. She was impressed with his punctuality. The few men she had been on dates with in the past had always been late. Emily had to admit that his ability to be on time impressed her. A lot.

Lexi was ecstatic when Emily had called to tell her about Liam asking her out on a date. It took some time to calm her friend down. In typical Lexi style, she immediately asked Emily for more details about Liam, wanting to know every detail about his looks, to what kind of car he drove. It was only after Emily promised her a full report later that Lexi calmed down and let Emily get to bed.

Although she was excited about the day, the butterflies in her stomach fluttered erratically. She’d gotten ready, choosing to keep her outfit simple and comfortable, slipping on her favorite pair of skinny jeans that molded to her body perfectly. She decided on a lightweight cream color blouse that boasted a “V” neck neckline, and she chose to dress it up with a long necklace. She thought it accented her cleavage just enough, allowing her to feel sexy and confident. She finished the outfit with her favorite open front cardigan. It was just enough to keep her warm in the chilly San Francisco air.

When Liam knocked on the door, Emily’s knees almost buckled at the sight of him. He wore dark denim and a white-button up shirt that stretched around his biceps, pulling across his chest. The darkness of his hair contrasted with his crystal blue eyes, reminding her of the aqua hue the moon took on when shining down upon the ocean at night.

He surprised Emily by saying they were going to ride the Cable Car. Emily had never been on a Cable Car and was impressed with the whole experience. Riding in the open-air streetcar was exhilarating. She had never ridden public transportation that allowed the wind to blow through her hair and brush her face. She hadn’t expected the experience to be as enjoyable as it was. When the Cable Car came to the top of the steep hills before descending, Liam put his arm around her shoulders and whispered assuring words to her, calming her nervousness.

They walked along Pier 39, where they ate lunch at a touristy spot that served Clam Chowder in a Sour Dough bread bowl. The meal was delicious. They walked to Ghirardelli Square, where they indulged in some delightful treats from the famous confectioner shop. Then hopped on the MUNI train back to Pier 39, where they watched the Sea Lions for a while. Liam stood behind Emily on the dock, his arms wrapped around her waist. He pointed out the numerous cities that could be seen around the Bay from their vantage point.

The sun had broken through the clouds by then, warming the air. The slight breeze kept them comfortable but wasn’t overpowering. And it was an immaculately clear day. The view of the Golden Gate Bridge sitting at the entrance of the bay was breathtaking. The clear blue sky against the bridge’s reddish-orange and the rolling green hills anchoring each end was a sight to behold. If Emily hadn’t known any better, she would have thought she was staring at a painting.

When they arrived back at the house later that afternoon, Emily felt amazing. Aside from hanging out with Lexi, she couldn’t remember the last time she had so much fun just talking and being with someone. She also couldn’t remember ever feeling the sensations she felt when she was around Liam. Especially when they touched.

The first time she shook his hand Emily was sure