It had been centuries since Charles was the playboy he used to be. He felt rusty and awkward these days when it came to anything romantic. Too many years in isolation, horrified at what belief had made of him.
Piper, however, knew everything. She ignored the lies and she knew the secrets. As awkward and rusty as he might be, she made him want to try.
He lifted a hand to brush her cheek before leaning in to kiss her gently. There was passion there, coiled deep in his belly, but he didn't want to get too carried away, nor did he want to push her. So he held himself back and kept the kiss soft.