Chapter 31

• He spins me around and stands up in a swift movement. He wraps his arms around me and leans in for a deep, powerful kiss. My knees buckle underneath me. My heart explodes like a spray of fireworks. I feel that soul-level rush of warmth and longing for Cliff, like I’m one half calling out for my other half. He cups my face in his hands and strokes my hair. When we finally break apart, his green eyes are bright. Full of meaning without words.
• I say what we’re both thinking.
• “I’m ready,” I whisper. “I’m a virgin, Cliff, and I don’t want to be one anymore.”