Before Jamie could fully comprehend her response, he had pulled Claire into his arms without conscious thought. Her tears fell as she sobbed against his bare chest. Instinctively, he wrapped his arms around her, offering what comfort he could. He tried to push aside any thoughts of pleasure, reminding himself that she was a grieving widow, and that this was not the time for his desires. However, the press of her body against his chest ignited a spark within him, the intimacy of their proximity intensifying his longing for her.