Текст книги "Shadow"
Автор книги: Laurann Dohner
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Текущая страница: 11 (всего у книги 17 страниц)
Beauty paused, staring at Creek. “Why? We’re all considered family, aren’t we?”
“It’s their nature. Mercile didn’t create them to be feeble. We had a lifetime to grow resentful of authority figures. It’s our jobs as females to give them a reason to unite. They work together to give us a home.” She smiled, tucking in her side of the comforter. “We allow them to do it. We need to be reminders that there’s more to living than seeking revenge on the ones who’ve harmed us.”
“What is your job specifically?” Beauty glanced around the room, not seeing anything else to do. She held Creek’s gaze.
“Breeze just expects us to always be supportive of our males.”
“Is that why you sleep with so many of them instead of settling down with one? There aren’t a lot of us who survived.”
A grin curved Creek’s mouth. “No.” She sat on the end of the bed. “Do you know anything about the breeding experiments they did at Mercile?”
“I’ve heard a little about it.”
“We were taken to males to share sex. Sometimes it would be the same one for a few weeks but mostly they’d take us to different ones. They wanted us to become pregnant and probably thought exposing us to several males would help make it successful. Your heart hardens after a few years of it.”
“I don’t understand.” Beauty perched on the dresser.
Creek’s humor fled as she hugged her waist. “We learned not to become attached to anyone. It was a painful mistake to become emotionally involved. They would use us to punish the males or use the males to attempt to force us to do their bidding without protest if they suspected we cared too much about each other. Arguing against whatever they wanted was never a good thing.”
“What kind of things did they want you to do?”
Fangs dented her bottom lip. “Bad things. I was taken to a male once who’d been tortured. He was in bad shape and I tended to him instead of sharing sex.” Anger deepened Creek’s voice. “As if he were in any condition to do that. He’d been severely beaten. I think they wanted to humiliate him.”
“By having you share sex?”
“He was so injured he couldn’t get up from his mat. They expected me to initiate the sex. You said you don’t know much about our males but they are proud. It would have shamed him to be expected to perform but not be able to.” Her voice lowered. “I doubt he could have gotten it up.” She glanced at her lap, then back at Beauty. “Do you understand?”
“Yes.”
“I knew they’d refuse to feed me for a few days as punishment for not stripping and trying to share sex with him but I worried he’d die. The technician mistook my compassion for an attachment for the male when he returned me to my cell. That bastard threatened the male’s life if I didn’t allow him to mount me.” Her jaw clenched and her dark eyes narrowed. “I broke his nose and kicked him in the nuts when he got too close. I hope it hurt like hell. I was never going to submit to being raped without putting up a fight. The other technicians pulled him out of the cell before I could do more damage or I might have killed him.” She shrugged. “He never tried that again.”
Beauty blinked back tears. “I’m glad you were able to defend yourself.”
“Me too. Not all our females were so lucky.” Compassion filled Creek’s gaze. “Needless to say though, we grew to protect our hearts by not getting too attached to one male. We’re enjoying our freedom. We have so many choices now and no one tells us who we have to share sex with anymore.” Creek hesitated. “Plus, I think some of us feel it would be unfair to just pick one male when there aren’t enough females to go around.”
“Do you feel that way?” Beauty studied her closely, spotting the hint of sorrow in her features.
Creek shrugged. “I don’t know. Sometimes, I guess. Don’t ever repeat that to Breeze. She’d be horrified. That wasn’t her intention when we moved into the women’s dorm at Homeland. She got us all together to discuss how to help our males with our new lives. It was never implied we should share sex with them but it’s our duty to make sure we care for them as much as they do us. They are protective and shield us as much as possible from the harshness we still endure from the outside world. It seems a small price to meet their needs.” She laughed. “And it’s certainly pleasurable. They take really good care of us in all aspects.”
“Is there someone you like more than anyone else?”
“No.” Creek stood. “I make sure I never spend too much time around any of the males I’ve become intimate with. There aren’t as many as you’d think. A lot of them here are interested in the humans. We have a lot of interaction with the local town.”
“Is that scary?”
“Humans?” Creek grinned. “No.” The smile disappeared and she continued, “I’m sorry for what happened to you. Was it bad? I don’t know your history.”
“I guess it could have been a lot worse. There was only one man who abused me. He was old and he didn’t beat me but he wanted to have sex sometimes. It was a cold and uncomfortable experience but I wasn’t brutalized. The guards he hired were always trying to bribe or frighten me into doing things with them though. I never did.”
“I’m sorry you had to survive that but you don’t need to fear all humans. We have some working here and I’ve made good friends with two of them. You should meet Zandy and Richard while you’re visiting Reservation. I have lunch with them often but not together right now.”
“You’re friends with human men? Do they fight over you? Is that why they need to be kept apart?”
“No.” The question seemed to amuse her. “Zandy is a female mated to Tiger and they have a son. She just had the baby but Richard can’t find out she was ever pregnant. We trust him but knowing classified information might put him in danger if anyone suspects. Zandy had to transfer to another job to avoid him and he was told she’s at Homeland. They talk by phone since they remained friends but I get to see them separately. The baby is adorable. Have you ever seen one?”
Beauty nodded. “Yes. We have a few of them at Homeland. Ellie brings Salvation to work with her all the time. Fury is his father and the baby looks just like him.”
“I want one so bad but it doesn’t seem it will ever be possible.”
“A baby?”
Creek nodded, glancing around. “Let’s go downstairs to clean up that mess.”
The topic was over. The Species fled the room. Her stiff posture and the wistful tone of her voice revealed her pain. Beauty placed a hand over her flattened tummy, wondering how it would feel to be pregnant as she slid off the edge of the dresser. So far none of the women Species had been able to conceive.
The idea of someone being totally dependent on Beauty was a scary thought. She could barely face each day on her own without wondering how she’d get through it. She loved Salvation and Forest, the two babies she spent the most time around, but was glad they weren’t her responsibility. Children needed parents who were knowledgeable of all things and who could teach them how to survive in the world.
“Creek?”
She paused at the top of the stairs, turning back. “Yes?”
“Why do you want a baby?”
Her features hardened. She was silent for long seconds but then relaxed. “I guess besides the obvious reasons of just wanting to know what it would be like to become a mother, I want someone to love. A child would be safe to open my heart to and share my life with.”
Beauty mulled that answer and reached out, wrapping her fingers around the other woman’s wrist. “I understand.”
“Trisha says not to give up hope and that maybe the experts they’ve hired can find a way around our genetic engineering so we can conceive.”
“Would you want a mate if you were able to have a baby?”
“You’re full of questions.” Creek hesitated. “It’s not an option right now so I don’t allow myself to think of it often.”
“But you do.”
She smiled. “I have considered it. I see how happy Zandy and Tiger are. She’s his entire world and he is hers. It would be nice to go home after work to find someone excited to see me. Of course I doubt I’d be as understanding as she is of his nature. Humans are more agreeable than Species females.”
“I don’t understand.”
“Our males are pushy. Zandy thinks it’s cute when Tiger gets very protective of her. I would be irritated. I’m strong enough to care for myself. I might even feel insulted. We’d butt heads often and aggressively.”
“She’s not as strong as you are.” Beauty studied her from head to foot. “She probably needs his protection.”
Creek laughed. “That’s true. Zandy is very brave but she isn’t exactly physically intimidating.”
“I like it that Shadow is protective. A lot scares me but I feel safe with him.” It wasn’t too bad, admitting that. She felt comfortable with Creek. “I want to keep him in my life.”
“You two shared sex. How was that? Were you scared?”
“It was amazing.” Her heart raced just remembering it. “He was very sweet and it was so much more than I expected.”
“Your expectations had to be low after what you’ve suffered.”
That statement shattered Beauty’s happiness. “True.”
“I’m sorry. I didn’t mean that the way it sounded.”
Beauty’s hand dropped away. “No. It’s true. Anything had to be better than what I’ve known.”
Creek gripped her hand. “I’m really sorry. This discussion has left me feeling a bit defensive and a little gloomy.”
“I didn’t mean to pry or upset you.”
“You didn’t. It’s natural to be curious. Talking about babies and mates depresses me. I’m glad that you enjoyed the sex with Shadow and that you wish to spend more time with him. He seems very concerned about your safety. He’s a good male. I can tell these things.”
“All our men are good.”
“No.” She hesitated. “I’ve met a few that I avoid. They are damaged inside by hatred and closed to emotions. They would never mistreat a female but they are coldly detached from feeling too much. Shadow is very warm and friendly. He’ll be good for you but you should know that the more time you spend with him, the more attached he might grow to you. They tend to want to keep something they believe is theirs. Every time you share sex will give him the impression that he can keep you in his bed.”
“I’d like that.”
Creek gently squeezed her. “I’m glad for you then. He’ll return when Medical clears him.”
“It’s frightening to allow myself to feel.” Beauty clung to her hand. “You should take a chance and allow someone to get close to you, Creek. It is scary but I’ve come to realize I have nothing to lose. I wasn’t living. I was just existing. There’s a world of difference. I deserve to be happy and so do you. I was forced to spend my life mostly alone but I have more now. I was locked inside a basement with only the guards to bring me food when they decided to feed me. I was only allowed out when Master wanted me upstairs. I hated it when a day or two would go by without seeing anyone but being taken upstairs was worse.”
Creek stared at her for long seconds before she released her hand. “I’ll give it some thought.” She smiled. “You’re pretty brave for a Gift, Beauty. Know that. I’m much stronger but the idea of putting my heart in a male’s hands scares the hell out of me. I’ve been hurt enough.”
“I’m really not. I’m scared all the time but I’m more afraid of wasting the life I’ve been given by never taking chances. I have enough regrets.”
* * * * *
Shadow growled at Dr. Harris, the wrinkled, white-haired male who was much older than him. The human frowned.
“Don’t take a chunk out of me. No biting, damn it. I’m done giving you stitches.”
“I will not bite. It hurt. I make noises when I’m in pain.”
“Sorry about that but I’m glad you’re not feeling ornery toward me.” The doctor snapped off the gloves and tossed them in the trash. “I already got bitten this week.” He shoved up his white coat to show a bandage on his arm. “Wild Zone residents aren’t the best patients. I had to get four stitches myself. I’m lucky he just tore me a bit.”
“I don’t live there. I was visiting.”
“Right.” The doctor walked over to the wall to flip on a light and study the scan he’d ordered. “No permanent damage, no fractures to your skull, and no bleeding or swelling on the brain. You guys have hard heads.” He flipped off the light and turned around. “Are you still experiencing problems with your vision? Dizziness? Nausea? Any ringing in your ears? Headache?”
“The shot you gave me seems to have worked to stop those symptoms.”
“I envy you.” The doctor took a seat on the stool. “My joints are killing me. Arthritis is a bitch.”
Shadow arched his eyebrows, not sure what that meant.
“Never mind. Your kind don’t suffer from it and probably never will. That’s the advantage to having your hybrid genetics. They strained out the bad ones.” He crossed his arms over his chest. “You’re fine. You might feel more aggressive for the next twenty-four hours so watch your temper. No fighting. Stay away from the women too.”
“I can’t do that. I need to return to Beauty. She’s waiting for me at the cabin.”
“Oh.” Interest sparked in the male’s eyes. “You’re the one assigned to guard the Gift Female and see if she’s interested in sex? How is that going? Do you need any advice?”
“It is fine.”
“You wouldn’t be here if that were true. Is she the one who pushed you out a window? I was told you were shoved from the second floor of a cabin.”
“A male attacked me.”
“Huh. I didn’t get many details. How did that happen? I thought you two were supposed to be alone out there. Was it a Wild Zone resident? They can be a bit unstable.”
“It was Torrent.”
“Really?” The doctor’s eyes widened. “He doesn’t live out there but he deals with the wilder Species often. I guess they are rubbing off on him. I thought he’d be a good example to teach them how to control their instincts but maybe I should have a talk with him about how he shouldn’t go around attacking other people.”
Irritation flared. “He believed I was harming Beauty.”
“Were you?”
“No!” Shadow snarled again, insulted.
“Take it easy, young man. I just asked a question. Are you sure you don’t want advice? I give it all the time when you guys try to hook up with women who aren’t Species. I’ve seen Gifts and they are pretty small. Are you worried about being too rough with her?”
“We shared sex. It was fine.”
The doctor grinned. “Fine, huh? Maybe you do need some pointers. Sex should be amazing.” He chuckled. “I was young once. I would have been doing something wrong if any woman said that after I got done with her. In my day—”
A knock sounded on the door and it opened, interrupting the doctor. Shadow identified the male who poked his head inside and growled again. Torrent held his gaze before entering the room.
“I wanted to apologize.” Torrent had changed clothes and his hair was wet from a shower.
Dr. Harris stood. “No fighting in my exam room!” He got between them.
Shadow rose to his feet, glaring at the other male over the shorter human’s head. “You had no right to enter the cabin.”
“No one told me why you two were there. I just assumed a Gift wanted a little fresh air and to see the woods. I’m really sorry. I heard sounds when I went to knock and thought maybe one of the Wild Zone residents might have gotten inside. They are pretty nosy. I went inside to make sure they weren’t causing problems. Then I realized you were mounting the Gift. It is ingrained in me to protect her.”
Anger still made his blood boil but he acknowledged the regret in the other male’s face. He seemed sincere. Shadow unfurled his fists. He’d learned patience when he’d lived at the task force headquarters. Misunderstandings happened often between Species and humans. He just hadn’t expected it from other Species males.
“I would never force myself on a female.”
“I’m glad to hear that but I don’t know you. I assumed the worst.” Torrent lowered his gaze. “Do you want to take a swing at me to make us even?” He glanced up, holding his stare.
“Not in my exam room!” Dr. Harris shook his head. “Take it outside in twenty-four hours.” He glared at Torrent. “I have him a shot to help him heal. He’s not doing anything until it wears off.”
Shadow decided to forgive the male. He had been attempting to defend Beauty, after all. “You could still teach me to swim. I’m afraid the river being so close will pose a danger. I never learned.”
“I would be more than happy to do that. We’ll start tomorrow.”
“Not Beauty though. You stay away from her. You teach me and I will teach her.”
A grin lifted the corners of the other male’s lips. “I understand. I doubt I’m her favorite person right now.” He reached up and touched his shoulder. A bandage could be seen through the thin material of his shirt. “She bit me.”
Shadow smiled back, feeling satisfaction. “I’m the only male she wants.”
Chapter Fourteen
Creek tilted her head. “Someone approaches. I hear a Jeep.”
Beauty trailed her from the kitchen to the front door. The two council members had remained outside where Creek joined them. Beauty hesitated, glancing around first to be sure none of the human task force members were present too. A Jeep parked and relief swept through her as Shadow slid out of the passenger seat.
The dark-haired Species with bright-green eyes approached Shadow while the other one hung back. “How are you doing?”
“Fine.” Shadow’s gaze sought Beauty before he glanced at the Species. “You may go.”
He tried to step away but the male blocked his path. “Not so fast.”
“What’s wrong, Jaded?” Creek walked down the porch steps to halt at his side.
“The male had to be given the healing drugs. The symptoms will make him irritable, aggressive, and unstable. Shadow, you should return in the morning once you’re feeling more yourself.”
“I’m fine.” Shadow sidestepped Jaded, his focus locked on Beauty again. “I’d never harm her.”
Jaded jumped back into his path again. “Rethink it. I could make it a direct order.”
“Don’t,” the other male spoke, his voice deep. “He won’t harm the Gift. They are bonding. This time is important.”
“Damn it, Bestial.” Jaded turned his head. “Stay out of this.”
“They’ve had enough interference. That’s why this happened. No one should have come near them. Allow him to pass and let’s go.”
“We have no idea how he’ll react to the chemicals pumping through his system right now, accelerating the healing process.”
The other Species smirked. “I do. That’s Shadow, formerly of the human task force. I actually read the reports that come across my desk instead of going to all those charity events you frequent. He’s taken them at least two dozen times with no ill side effects and never attacked any of the humans on the team. I’m sure they irritated him plenty. She’s safe and we need to leave them alone.”
Jaded softly cursed. “Okay.” He stared at Shadow. “Call if you need anything at all. We’re going to put this area on total lockdown so no one comes here again.”
“Breeze is on her way,” Creek reminded them. “Are you going to tell her she’s banned from checking on her Gift Female? I’m certainly not. That’s one order I’ll refuse if you try to push that on me.”
“Fuck no.” Jaded growled. “She’d have my nuts.”
“I agreed to allow Torrent to teach me how to swim.”
Beauty was stunned by Shadow’s admission. It seemed she wasn’t alone when the other Species showed surprise as well. Shadow shrugged.
“The male’s intensions were good. I need to learn how to swim and he offered to teach me. What if Beauty were to fall into the river? It’s my duty to protect her against any danger. We’d both drown.”
“Okay.” Bestial nodded. “What did you learn from those humans?”
“Mistakes happen but you deal with them and get past it.”
Shadow approached Beauty. The bandage on his forehead was small but he walked on steady legs. He looked healthier and no longer pale. She was grateful that he seemed to be recovering from his injuries and that he’d returned so quickly. He came up on the porch and paused to stare down at her.
“How are you?”
“I’m fine.”
His eyebrows rose. “Really?”
“I was scared,” she whispered, unable to see the others with his body in her way. “How is your head?”
“Not broken.” He smiled.
“Let’s go and leave them alone,” Bestial announced. “You have a charity event to go to, don’t you, Jaded? We don’t want you to be late.”
“Shut up. For the thousandth time, I don’t enjoy them. They are a pain in the ass.”
“I don’t see you turning down any of those invitations.”
“They are for good causes and our publicity team said they improve our image.”
“You mean your image. Say cheese.”
“Boys!” Creek laughed. “No fighting. Stop antagonizing him, Bestial. We don’t want him to show up with any bruises if you two start exchanging blows. They always want Jaded be in the pictures. He can’t help it that he’s so pretty.”
The male snarled. “Screw you both.”
“You’re not my type,” Bestial teased.
“It would be so wrong to fuck my boss.” Creek laughed again. They left and Beauty listened to the engine sounds fade away. Shadow waited too until only birds singing nearby could be heard. He took a deep breath and reached out slowly to cup her face with one of his hands.
“Are you really fine? I hated to leave you.”
“I know.” She believed him. “Did the doctors clear you or should you still be there?” It wouldn’t surprise her if he’d refused to stay at Medical even if they’d asked him to.
“They said I could go.”
“Okay.”
He released her and she backed inside the cabin. His gaze left hers to drift around the room. His mouth tightened into a grim line before he looked back at her. “You cleaned up the destroyed table.”
“Creek helped me. I knew you’d do it but I didn’t want you to be reminded of what happened.”
“That is always going to stay with me. I should have heard him coming.”
“We were distracted.” Heat rose in her cheeks, remembering what they had been doing and that Torrent had seen them having sex. She cleared her throat. “I’m making us food. Go shower while I finish up. It’s just sandwiches. I wasn’t sure when you’d return but wanted to keep busy.”
He hesitated, closed the door at his back and locked it. “Can I hold you first?”
She nodded, stepping into him. The second his arms encircled her waist and drew her against his long frame, she breathed him in. The stench of antiseptic was strong but she wrapped her arms around his middle, hugging tightly. It didn’t matter that he smelled bad, just that he was back.
“I’m so sorry,” he stated gruffly. “It won’t happen again.”
“Don’t do that.”
He tensed.
“That wasn’t your fault. Stop blaming yourself. We’re both fine. It was a lesson learned. We never thought anyone would enter the cabin.”
He rested his chin on top of her head. “I’m proud of you.”
It was her turn to tense. “Why?”
“You bit him.” He chuckled. “You fought with a male. I won’t forget that. You faced your fears attempting to defend me.”
Worry melted into warm sensations as she relaxed in his hold again. “Creek thought your pride would be injured and warned me you might be angry. That wasn’t my intention. I just wanted to protect you when you were unconscious.”
“My pride is bruised for allowing anyone to sneak up on us. I was worried that you’d regret coming here with me. I am probably not the right male for you.”
It was an improvement. He’d said probably instead of being certain. “You are perfect,” she swore.
He hugged her a little tighter. “I’ll shower. I reek from being at Medical.”
A small laugh escaped. “I wasn’t going to complain.”
Shadow nuzzled her again. “I’ll hurry. We’ll talk.”
“Okay.” Her hold on him loosened but she didn’t want to let go. “You need to eat something.”
“I do.” They stared at each other as they stepped back and broke physical contact. “Food will help my body process the drugs they gave me.”
“Are you really okay?”
He nodded. “I’ll heal fast. I’ve adjusted to the side effects. You’re in no danger from me.”
“I know that. I trust you.” She did, completely.
“Living with the task team wasn’t easy but I’m glad for the experiences it gave me.”
Beauty watched him jog up the stairs and disappear in the direction of his room. She was tempted to follow him. She’d love to watch him strip and shower. Instead, she entered the kitchen to finish preparing lunch. It gave her a sense of fulfillment to prepare food for her Shadow.
She froze. My Shadow? Beauty closed her eyes as her heart stuttered inside her chest. He wasn’t really hers, not for certain yet. They’d had sex but that didn’t mean they were a real couple. Sleeping in his arms didn’t mean he’d want her there every night for the rest of their lives. It hurt thinking about a day that might come when she wasn’t welcome there.
* * * * *
Shadow rushed his shower, careful of the bandage on his head. He didn’t want to get the stitches wet. That would mean another trip to Medical or acquiring an ugly scar. It usually wouldn’t matter to him but now his looks mattered. He wanted to be attractive to Beauty.
He reached up to run his fingers through his hair to wash out the soap. He was used to the military hairstyle he’d had to keep while working for the task force. It helped him fit in with the team. It had begun to grow out since he’d returned to Homeland with Wrath but not by much.
Did it bother Beauty that he didn’t have the long hair that most Species males had? Insecurity was a new emotion he didn’t enjoy. He turned off the water and grabbed a towel. He dried quickly, knowing she waited for him.
They were both damaged by humans. He and Beauty had that common bond but was it enough to bridge the differences? She was soft, timid. He wasn’t. She’d been sheltered after her release from her prison while he’d faced humans head-on as a task force member after being given his freedom. She’d hidden while he was being treated. What if he wanted to go back to headquarters and work for Tim Oberto again? Beauty would have to deal with the human males on a daily basis.
The answer came to him instantly. He couldn’t go back. He’d returned to live with Species as a vacation, not planning to stay, and he’d enjoyed his time in the outside world, but he’d have to stay at Homeland for good.
Shadow entered his room, grabbed clothes from the dresser and sat on the bed. Beauty’s image filled his head when he closed his eyes. Her smile, the way she blushed. Her dark eyes staring intently into his seemed imprinted there forever. She trusted him. He’d been the one she’d chosen to approach for sex. The time they’d spent during that storm had somehow made her pick him.
“Damn,” he rasped.
The idea of walking away from her wasn’t one that sat well within his heart. It ached just considering saying goodbye. Another male would eventually take his place if he left. She didn’t want to be segregated from other Species and obviously enjoyed sex. It meant someone would touch her, kiss her, and put their hands on her lithe body. Rage burned inside until beads of sweat broke out over his skin.
No way in hell. She’s mine!
Astonishment replaced his violent show of temper. He hadn’t meant to form a bond but it was there. He opened his eyes as he rose to his feet to put on a pair of jeans and a tank top. He didn’t bother with shoes and rushed down the stairs in search of her. She sat at the table in the kitchen with two plates of food, waiting for him.
Beauty’s smile at seeing him made him want to kiss her. He didn’t hesitate to crouch near her chair and slide his fingers into her hair at the base of her neck. Her dark eyes widened a second before he brushed his lips against hers. They were so soft, welcoming, and they parted when he licked over the seam.
He wanted her. Blood rushed to his dick until his jeans were uncomfortable. He pulled back to stare into her eyes.
She blushed but didn’t look away. “What was that for?”
“I missed you.”
Surprise then pleasure showed on her beautiful face. “I missed you too.” Her hand lifted to grip his shoulder. “More.” Her chin tilted up, offering her mouth again.
“Let’s eat first.”
The flash of pain wasn’t missed. He wanted her to know it wasn’t a rejection in any form. “I was given drugs to help me heal. I need food to help my system level out.”
“Okay.” Her hand slid away.
“You’re sleeping in my bed again.” He wasn’t sure how he’d handle it if she refused. Not well, was his guess. The air inside his lungs froze, waiting for her reaction.
“I’d like that.”
He breathed again. “Every night.” He couldn’t help but push for more. It was his nature.
“Okay.”
Joy and relief merged as he straightened and took the seat next to her. The desire to stay close was strong. He forced his attention from Beauty to the food. “Thank you.”
“You’re welcome.”
He glanced at her to discover her smile. “This smells really good.”
“I know how to cook. I learned how to clean too. I can do laundry.” She nibbled on her bottom lip.
Something bothered her. He shifted his weight to stare at her. “What is it?”
“Nothing.”
He smothered a growl. “Beauty? You have an expressive face.” Beautiful too. Delicate. “What are you thinking?”
“It’s nothing.” Her gaze skirted away.
He growled that time, not holding back his frustration. She appeared startled as her eyes met his.
“Don’t lie to me. No deceit should be between us. You have something on your mind, something you want to say. Spit it out.”
She didn’t smile but instead suddenly took great interest in his tank top.
“Beauty?”
Her shoulders sagged. “It’s stupid.”
“Everything you say matters.”
“Okay. I was just thinking how pathetic you must see me. I made you food and I’m listing off my domestic qualities.”
Confused, he forced her head up gently with a firm grip on her chin. “Those are nice skills. I’m bad at laundry.” The need to assure her was strong. “Do you want to know what new black uniforms being washed with new white socks does? It turned the socks an ugly gray. The team laughed when they saw them the first time we hit the mats to train. No one told me whites should be separated from dark colors, especially ones that have never seen the inside of a washer before.”
“Ellie would never allow us to make that mistake. She’s our house mother who teaches us living skills.” Humor lit up her features before it faded quickly. “I have nothing else to offer you.”
He tried to make sense of what she was saying. He shook his head, at a loss. “I don’t ask for anything.”
