The Quantum Objective Read Online Free Page A

exhausted body to bed. I shouldn’t have let you stay up so late.’
‘Hah, you’re too polite to tell me to shut up and leave you alone. I know it’s hard to believe after nearly nine straight hours of chatter, but I’m not normally much of a conversationalist.’
The chuckle deep in his chest sent warm swirls of delight through her. She couldn’t believe how attracted she was. His proximity seeped delicious heat through her like a warm fire. He’d been unrelentingly thoughtful, catering to every need before she needed it.
Evidently, what I need most is to talk. Who knew?
She couldn’t seem to shut up. I’d better let him sleep, even though he looks like he could run a marathon. She could sense no fatigue. It must be wonderful to be that fit, she mused.
‘You know it’s your turn tomorrow. I hardly know anything about you,’ she said.
‘Yes, you do. I told you about my job, my parents.’
‘Sure, but those are just the basics. I want to know your favourite novel, film, surf spot.
‘What’s a surf spot?’
She did a double take.
It’s the tan, t-shirt and muscles – they’ve addled my brain. I need to sleep.
‘You don’t surf?’ she stood and straightened her pyjama sleeves.
‘I don’t even swim…never got round to learning,’ his laugh was gruff. ‘Never been in the sea. You’ll have to tell me all about it. ’
Who hadn’t been in the sea? Weird.
‘That’s okay…you do know you’re a little strange though, right?’
He stilled.
‘Would you like me to leave?’
‘What? No! I just…never mind. I’ll get you a pillow and some sheets. Are you sure you’ll be ok on the sofa?’ It now looked miniscule.
He smiled at her puckered brow. ‘It’ll be very comfortable. I’ve spent many nights in far inferior conditions.’
‘Really? You see, that’s what I want to hear about.’
‘I don’t think you’d like it,’ he looked away. ‘You better go to bed, the sun will be up soon.’
But Beth didn’t want to sleep. Didn’t want the connection to end. What if I never connect to anyone ever again? She reached for his elbow, halting his turn.
‘Thank you for everything.’ She pressed a palm to his chest, leaning into him. He squeezed it briefly then brushed his mouth against her fingers before gently putting her arm back by her side.
‘Get some sleep, Beth. I’ll be here when you wake.’ He smiled with such warmth, the impending wave of humiliation dissipated harmlessly.
Exhaustion hit Beth like a tank. She rubbed her eyes, too tired to focus on his polite rejection.
‘I don’t think I can move.’ He smiled and raised his hands towards her.
The weight of her body was suddenly more than she could carry. Her legs gave way under a rush of darkness.

*
Strong arms caught her slim frame and carried her to her bed. He drew the blanket over her shoulders and sat once more to watch her sleep. Perun still couldn’t believe he’d made contact.

Chapter Three
    ‘Sooo late!’ Beth shoved dirty laundry into the machine, threw fresh seed into Bohm’s bowl, grabbed a jacket, checked her dress and reached for the blinds at the window.
She hardly recognised the girl rushing about, but she had to concede it was unexpectedly…fun. She’d always rather looked down on girls who jittered and quaked about boys. Her lip would curl with distaste, then pity.
Of course, Liam was different.
He’d slept on the sofa for two weeks, making her crazy. She’d cracked last week. Sculpted muscle and smooth skin had filled her with quivers till she’d crossed the room and firmly planted the kiss she’d been obsessing about. He’d hesitated for only the briefest moment before returning the sweet pressure. It had been completely delicious, terrifying and wonderful.
Beth grabbed her overnight bag and took a quick final look around the room. Her eyes rested for a brief moment on the vase of bright flowers that still shone their rainbow colours out at her. She shook her head with a