In this excerpt from "The Gathering" by Kelley Armstrong, the characters engage in a moment of tension and closeness, highlighted by their playful conversation about safety. One character pauses to assess the space between them, joking about their proximity in relation to the possibility of a branch breaking or the risk of a deeper connection. This sets the stage for an intimate moment, blending humor with an undercurrent of attraction.

The scene evolves as one character takes the initiative, pulling the other into a kiss that transforms from gentle exploration into something much more passionate. As they both straddle a branch, the kiss grows deeper, suggesting that their connection is so intense that external dangers fade into the background. The moment illustrates the blend of vulnerability and desire, emphasizing the thrill of being caught between safety and the urge to embrace the unknown.