Page 58 of Her Older Sheikh

Why do I have this crazy, out-of-the-blue urge to know how big his hands are?

"You have nothing to worry about."

Don't say it, don't say it, don't say it.

"Doctor?"

"Yes, Temptation?"

"May I know how big your hands are?"

Oh God, I actually said it.

"Of course." Dr. Somebody doesn't miss a beat in responding, and I love how utterly professional he still sounds even when such words in real life would've passed for sexual harassment.

"And to answer your question..."

A small but distinct pause follows, and I hold my breath unthinkingly.

"My hands are appropriate for someone my size."

The last word sounds unbelievably wicked for some reason, and I start fanning my face.

"But if I may ask—-"

"Of course, Doctor." I'm surprised (and slightly ashamed) at how easily the words are now rolling down my tongue.

"Is there any particular reason you're concerned about the size of my hands?"

"Oh, um, none at all. I was just curious."

"I hope you're being honest with me."

A shiver tickles down my spine at the sudden firmness of his tone.

"It's my responsibility as your doctor to make you feel...better."

If that's innuendo I'm hearing, I...want more of it.

"But I won't be able to do that if you're not completely honest with me."

Oh...my.

The gentleness in his voice is gone, and in its place is a dangerously soft tone that only makes my heart hammer away even as I hear myself actuallywhisper—-

"You're scaring me, Doctor."

"Good."

Dr. Somebody purrs the word into my ear, and the sound utterly destroys me.

Oh God.

How is he able to make that word sound both like a promise and a warning all at the same time?

"I take my work very seriously," Dr. Somebody continues in a voice that threatens and seduces,concurrently. "I don't like it when my patient is dishonest...or disobedient."

I know when I'm being baited, but since this fantasy is all about me playing dumb and worrying about nothing—-