Page 13 of Rescuing Sophia

Blake holds up a hand, swallowing with visible effort. “It’s fine,” he croaks. “I just—usually take it black.”

Embarrassment floods through me.Of course you do. How could I be so stupid?

“I’ll make a new pot.” I turn away to hide the trembling of my hands.

“Sophia.” He suddenly stands, and I shrink back, expecting a blow, but he grabs my arms and makes me look at him.

His gaze locks onto mine.

“Stop.” He’s firm but kind. “I’m not upset, and I’m not going to take it out on you.”

His steady gaze and reassuring words soothe my frantic heart. His touch grounds me, and the fear recedes, though the old instincts are hard to shake.

“I’m sorry, I just…” My voice falters as I struggle to find the right words. “Mistakes were never tolerated. I don’t know how to react. I’ll do better next time.”

“The omelet looks delicious. Why don’t you sit down and join me?”

I hesitate, glancing back at him. Blake’s eyes are soft and kind, and his posture is open and inviting. Slowly, I turn, my heart still racing but soothed by his sincerity.

He gestures to the seat beside him, and I take a tentative step. He reaches out, lightly touching my arm, grounding me in the moment.

“You don’t have to be perfect. Just be here with me.”

I swallow hard and finally take the seat next to him. My body is still tense but beginning to relax. His smile is reassuring, and for the first time, I allow myself to believe that maybe, just maybe, I don’t have to please him at all costs.

I can simply be me.

Whoever that is.

We eat in silence for a few moments, the only sound the scrape of forks against plates. The omelet is decent, if a bit overcooked,but I can hardly taste it, let alone swallow past the lump in my throat.

“So,” I say, desperate to break the awkward silence. “What’s on the agenda for today?”

Blake looks up, surprise flitting across his face. “Well, I have to report in and go over some intel. You can stay here and rest if you’d like.”

The thought of being left alone in this strange apartment sends a shiver of panic through me. The silence is too loud.

“Stay here? All day?” I try to keep my voice light, but fear creeps in at the edges. My fingers twist togetheragain; a nervous habit I can’t control. “By myself?”

“Is that a problem?” His brow furrows, but there’s concern in his piercing blue eyes.

I force a smile, leaning forward slightly, my agitation barely contained.

“I was hoping you might show me around. I’d love to see more.” My voice wavers slightly, betraying my attempt at nonchalance.

And spend more time with you.

“You don’t have to wait for me. You can go out and look around if you want.” Blake shrugs, his tone casual.

“You mean I can… I can leave the apartment by myself?” I blink in surprise.

“Of course you can.” His expression softens. “You’re not a prisoner, Sophia. You can come and go freely.”

Can I?

I’m here because Guardian HRS fears Jonathan Greaves will try to take me back. They’re not wrong about that. Well, it’s not Greaves who wants me back, but that’s another story.

“I—I’ve never been allowed to walk around on my own.” I look at him, the weight of his words sinking in.

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