John grins, then leans down, sweeping one arm under Karen's legs, the other behind her back, then pulls her up into his arms. She's a tall woman, but John is tall, too, and stronger than people might think when they see a well dressed man in a finely tailored suit. He likes carrying her like this, feeling, however foolishly, as if he can protect her from anything.

Karen doesn't necessarily need protecting. She's clever and tough and John knows it's a little sexist of him, but he still likes how it feels.

"How's this?" he asks, teasing as he carries her into the bedroom, then lays her gently on their bed before he ducks his head down to press his lips to her long throat.