He knew he was affecting her. Unlike some, she wasn't afraid, no. Rather, she was offering him a challenge, and he was enjoying it about as much as he would the other. After she turned, he slid closer, one leg inserting itself between both of hers, pinning her against the counter without asking. No, he didn't want to ask. Besides, if the way her pulse fluttered at her throat was any indication, she liked it. He kissed her her, no softness, pressing for more, thinking he would get it if he was reading the signs right.