Page 16 of Redemption

“Megan.” I reach out to grab her arm but stop when she freezes and stares with fear in her eyes at my hand. “I won’t hurt you.”

“It’s not that.” She wraps her arms around her middle to protect herself. I can see she’s shaking. “What they wanted is perfectly natural. It was consensual. What happened to me wasn’t. I don’t know if I’ll ever be what is termed ‘normal’ again or be able to enjoy…” She pauses, and I know the word on the tip of her tongue is giving her too much pain to say. “..Sex.” It finally comes out, and she shudders with revulsion. “I’m broken for all men because I only see them as monsters.”

I take a step closer to her, and she allows me to comfort her this time.

“It won’t always be that way. You have a lot to work through. You’ve only been free for a short while. Give it time…your body and mind both need to heal.”

“But what if he comes back for me?”

“He won’t. I’ll protect you.”

I don’t know why but an overwhelming urge hits me to seal my declaration with a kiss to the top of her head. I lean forward, and at the last minute, Megan moves and tilts her head up. Our lips meet it’s brief, but it sends a bolt of desire through me I’ve never felt before. Megan pulls away, shock registering on her face.

“Go and sleep. You’re exhausted, and I’m not much better. It’s been a long day. Tomorrow, we start the healing process together…side by side. I’m not a saint, but you have my word I’ll do all I can to help you.”

She nods and makes her way up the stairs. At the top, she turns back to look down at me, her fingers pressed to her lips. That ache in my chest increases, and I wonder if I’m wandering down a path that could destroy us both.

---