Page 55 of My Damaged Protector

“Ian…”

“Shhhh. Let me talk.” He places a finger on my lips to silence me.

When I'm quiet, he speaks again.

“I came because you needed me to. I know you wouldn't have called if it wasn't important. And while this may be hard for you to believe, I feel safe around you, Sarah. More than I ever have with anyone else, more than I think I ever will with anyone else. And when I called earlier, it was because I knew you needed someone, and I hoped you'd feel safe enough around me to want my comfort.”

I don't know what to say to him. So instead of speaking, I just bring our mouths back together and appreciate his thoughtfulness with my mouth.

When I eventually break the kiss, he pecks me on the cheek before he stands up from between my legs, goes into the bathroom, and returns with a washcloth, which he uses to clean between my legs.

“Thank you,” I whisper.

He only winks in response as he walks away.

When he's back, he's removed his shirt and draped it over the edge of the sofa. He gets on the bed and offers me his arms.

“Come here.”

I willingly go between the offered arms and let him wrap me up with his strong muscles. We remain like this for a while. I almost assume he's fallen asleep until he speaks again.

“Shame on You,” he whispers, and I instantly understand what he's talking about.

“What about it?”

“Nothing, it just feels very accusatory. I almost feel bad for the guy who inspired the title.”

“Why? Do you think you might have been the guy behind the inspiration?”

“Maybe?”

He wasn't. But I'm not about to dredge up things that need not be bothered with, so I switch things up.

“Why do you think the title feels accusatory? You haven’t even read the book.”

“Oh, I have. Took me three full days to finish it. You write very detailed books, Sarah. It's impressive.”

Books.

“How many of my books have you read so far?”

“Only twelve.”

Twelve! That's more than half the books I've written.

Turning in his arms, I raise my head so I can see his face.

“You're not joking,” I say when I can see him.

“Why would I be joking?”

“Shame on You,what's the name of the lead male character?”

“Jordan Smith. Although, I do think the name could use a bit more tweaking. Maybe the Smith could substitute for Dick? The guy is an asshole.”

“Pot calling the kettle black,” I tease.

The way his face darkens tells me he believes he's an asshole. Maybe he is, but he's not Jordan or the man and relationship that inspired me to write it. I didn't even capture half his character in the book.

---