Page 34 of Rescuing Sophia

He embraces me fiercely. “Let me show you a different way of being intimate—a way that meets both your needs and mine.”

In this moment, the boundaries blur, not just between our bodies but between our hearts, as we forge a bond that transcends mere physicality, reaching into the depths of our souls.

I bury my face against his chest and make a solemn vow to myself. I choose Blake’s love over the comforting numbness of submission. I choose to heal despite the crushing stigma and self-doubt I’ll undoubtedly face.

“Deep thoughts for the cafeteria, and I’m interested in exploring this further.” Blake’s hand tightens around mine, grounding me in the present. “But how about we continue that in private?” He searches my eyes, his gaze softening as if he understands the weight of what we’ve just shared.

He shifts the conversation back to something lighter, something easier to handle for now. “So, what are you in the mood for?” His voice is warm and comforting.

“Anything and everything.” I laugh, feeling a wave of happiness wash over me. “But coffee first.”

We move through the serving line, selecting our food while exchanging light banter. The scent of fresh coffee and sizzling bacon fill the air, making my stomach growl in anticipation. With our trays full, we weave through the bustling cafeteria, searching for a quiet corner.

Just as we find a cozy booth, a familiar voice calls out.

“Morning, lovebirds. Sleep well?” Ethan, the team leader, grins at us from a nearby table where the rest of the team is gathered.

We approach the table where Charlie team sits. Ethan’s face breaks into a wide grin. “Well, look who finally decided to grace us with their presence. Come on, plenty of room.”

Blake pulls out a chair for me. His fingers brush my shoulder as I sit, a barely-there touch that steadies my nerves. He takes the seat beside me, a solid presence at my side.

Gabe leans forward, his eyes twinkling with mischief. “Good to see you, Sophia. We were starting to think Blake was keeping you locked away in a tower.”

Heat rushes to my cheeks.

Blake’s jaw tightens, but there’s no real heat in his voice when he says, “Watch it, smartass.”

The team chuckles, a warm, familial sound. Walt tosses awadded-up napkin at Gabe’s head. “Ignore him, Sophia. We don’t let him out in public often.”

“You’re just jealous of my charm.” Gabe catches the napkin mid-air.

“Is that what we’re calling it now?” Hank drawls, sipping his coffee.

Rigel, practically vibrating with energy, pipes up. “Sophia, what do you think of Guardian HQ? Pretty cool, right?”

The easy banter washes over me. These men seem…human.

Approachable.

Ethan’s expression softens, his tone gentling. “How are you settling in, Sophia? Is Blake taking good care of you? Getting you everything you need?”

I glance at Blake, finding strength in his steady gaze. “He’s been... very kind.” My voice barely rises above a whisper.

“Kind, huh?” Walt waggles his eyebrows. “That’s not a word I’d usually associate with Blake.”

Blake’s hand finds mine under the table, a silent reassurance. “Alright, enough. Let the woman eat in peace.”

The conversation shifts, the men falling into an easy rhythm of jokes, banter, and tall tales of their prowess. I listen, picking at my food, marveling at how these dangerous men can also be so... normal. And how, despite the noise and unfamiliarity, I feel safe.

Protected.

Blake’s thumb traces circles on my palm, grounding me in the moment. For the first time in years, I allow myself to relax in the presence of men.

“Everyone’s been very kind.” I twist a strand of hair around my finger, my heart racing. “It’s a lot to take in, but I’m grateful for... everything.”

“Speaking of… Any news from Mitzy’s team on Greaves?” Gabe leans forward, his expression turning serious.

I flinch, my body instinctively curling inward. Blake’s hand finds mine under the table, a steady anchor.

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