Page 14 of Rescuing Sophia

Blake’s hand hovers above the table, fingers twitching like they have a will of their own. His jaw clenches, muscles tightening beneath his skin, and his eyes flash with something raw and unguarded.

He shifts in his seat, shoulders tensing, betraying his internalbattle. He looks at me, his gaze torn between the restraint of duty and the undeniable urge to offer comfort.

“I just don’t want to be alone,” I confess, my voice trembling slightly.

Blake’s resolve wavers and he finally gives in, taking my hand in his. The contact sends a shiver down my spine.

“You don’t have to stay if you don’t want to.” His gaze heats. “I’ll make time to show you around. We can do it together.”

“Thank you. Thank you. I’d really like that.” Relief and a hint of triumph wash over me.

My first genuine smile breaks free after years of captivity. I catch his eye, drawing on every ounce of vulnerability I can muster. “And thank you for staying with me last night. You went above and beyond, and I’m grateful for it.” My voice is steadier now but still soft. “I—I felt safe.”

“I’m glad it helped.” His expression is warm and reassuring. “You’ve been through a lot, and it can feel strange in a new place. You’ll get used to it soon enough.”

“I appreciate everything you’re doing to help me.” I let my voice shake slightly, my eyes wide with calculated vulnerability.

Men love vulnerable women; it makes them feel powerful. Even if I genuinely crave Blake’s touch, a part of me remains guarded, wary of his power.

“Any time, and it’s my pleasure.” His blue eyes soften even more.

It’s a small victory and a good start. I lower my gaze demurely, hiding the small, secret smile that threatens to reveal my true intentions. I plan on many nights with Blake in my bed.

If I have to do this, I might as well enjoy it. There’s no reason to deny myself pleasure with a man who looks like Blake.

As he finishes his breakfast, I carefully craft my next move.

“Everything here is so new and—overwhelming. I hate to take you away from your work.” I look at him through my lashes, knowing it’s too soon to do the flutter thing.

Seduction is an art.

Less is best.

“But I do really appreciate it.” My voice is soft and sincere. “How about we ride around in one of those golf carts? It would be a fun way to see everything. And maybe, if it’s not too much trouble, you could take me to where you work? I’d love to see more of what you do.”

“Sounds like a plan.” His eyes flicker with consideration.

Relief and triumph swirl within me as I clear the dishes and place them in the sink. I’m good to let them stay there, but to my surprise, Blake grabs a sponge and cleans everything.

“Blake, you don’t have to do that. I’ll get it done. Don’t worry about it.” I reach out to take the sponge from him.

He stops me, his grip gentle but firm. “Sophia, you don’t have to do the dishes. Let me do this for you.”

His words floor me. I’ve spent years serving and pleasing others, but having someone care for me like this is beyond anything I’ve known. His insistence and kindness are too much to process.

I stand there, watching him finish the task, my heart swelling with gratitude and something deeper… Something I can’t quite name.

FIVE

Sophia

When we finally head outside,I stop to take a deep breath. Crisp, fresh morning air fills my lungs, bringing with it a sense of freedom I haven’t known in years. My chest tightens, and tears prick at the corners of my eyes.

Standing here without a guard feels like an impossible dream come true, yet the weight of captivity remains a heavy burden to bear. I dare not let it be replaced by tentative hope, but it’s hard not to want to believe.

For the first time in a long while, the sun warms my skin without fear. The gentle breeze carries the scent of flowers and freshly cut grass to flood my senses. I soak it all in, every detail, every sensation.

I close my eyes and let the moment wash over me, savoring the simple act of standing here, free and unshackled. A small, genuine smile spreads across my face, a rare and precious gift I allow myself to enjoy.

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