Page 57 of Rescuing Ryder

“Very funny,” she made a face at him. “Ryder, we need to talk.”

He pushed his plate away and sat back against the sofa. “Bring it,” he commanded her.

“We need to discuss the kiss,” Claire responded softly.

“Wow, you’re still thinking about it. I’m impressed,” he gloated.

She frowned at him. “Can you stay serious for one minute?”

Ryder pretended to consider the option. “Probably not.”

She sat back against the chair. “Never mind,” Claire whispered.

He let out a loud sigh. Ryder moved the tray to the side and stared her down. She didn’t bother to glance up.

“Ok, Claire Bear,” he held out his hand. “We’ll talk. I want you to sit beside me. Will you?”

Claire nodded. He led her over to the couch and put her back to his chest.

“Say what you need to say. What’s on your mind?” Ryder whispered in her ear as they watched the fire burn in the fireplace.

Taking a deep breath, Claire asked him, “Did you transfer feelings for me as a patient to a doctor?”

“No.”

“Did you ask Chase to switch to Dr. Hill?” she asked.

“Yes.” he answered confidently.

“Because of what occurred between us?” she asked him tentatively.

“No.” he answered curtly.

“Ryder!” she raised her voice.

“What?” he asked irritated.

Claire rose from his chest and punched Ryder in the arm.

“You know for a head shrink, you pack one hell of a punch. Did you know hitting someone is a form of physical abuse? Tsk, tsk, tsk,” he reprimanded her.

She rolled her eyes. “One-word answers don’t constitute a discussion.”

“Fine. Then stop tiptoeing around what you want to really ask,” he demanded.

“If you know what I’m trying to ask, why don’t you say it?” she accused him.

He chuckled. “Because I love watching you squirm. I’ve been on the receiving end for so long; it’s kinda nice to have the shrink know how it feels.”

She punched him again.

“Owww. I attempted to discuss my feelings. Have you considered counseling for your aggressive behavior?”

“Anyone who knows you has wanted to hit you at some point,” she groused.

Ryder pulled her back against him.

“I asked Chase to switch me before you kissed me. You wanted to play the whole trust game…I didn’t want to think about all the shit it brought up. I figured if I transferred to Dr. Hill, he’d stick to the status quo,” he explained softly. “You got too close, Doc,” he admitted.

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