“Sean,” Claire managed to breathe out in between giggles. “Stop.”

“Stop what?” he teased, continuing his merciless tickling attack. “I like you breathless. You’re much more agreeable this way.”

She slapped at his hands. “Knock it… off.”

“You look beautiful like that. Flushed and-“

“Giraffe.”

The word, out of nowhere, called Sean’s hands to still. He brushed Claire’s hair away from her face. “You okay?” he asked.

She nodded, waiting a moment before she caught her breath. “Yeah. I just got scared. Sorry. I liked it. It was just… intense.”

Sean wrapped his arms around her and held her tight.