Page 38 of Rescuing Sophia

“Yes?”

“Are you okay? You zoned out for a minute.”

“I’m good. Just deep thoughts.” Anticipation and submission color my tone, but there’s something else there, too—a hint of wonder at my own capacity to heal, trust another, and actually desire physical intimacy with a man.

Blake’s eyes soften as if he can read the complex swirl of emotions behind my words. His thumb brushes my cheek, a tender gesture that speaks volumes.

“So am I, sweetheart,” he murmurs. “So am I.Have a good tour. I look forward to hearing all about it…later.” Blake steps back, his professional demeanor sliding back into place, but the heat in his eyes promises so much more.

The word later hangs between us, loaded with anticipation. As Blake leaves, the charged atmosphere in his wake makes my skin tingle in every place he touched me.

“Look at the lovebirds.” Gabe leans back with a grin.

Blake crosses his arms, growling, “Knock it off.”

“Our boy’s growing up so fast.” Walt shakes his head with a smirk.

Blake flips them off. “Mind your own business and play with your guns.”

As Blake leaves with his team, I fall in step with Carter, Jenna, and Max. The German Shepherd’s nails click against the polished floor, his watchful gaze never leaving Jenna.

“So, Sophia,” Carter’s voice is warm, “are you excited about helping at the coffee shop?”

“I think I am, but I’m nervous. I don’t think Jenna realizes how helpless I am, but having something to do will be nice.” I’m surprised by my enthusiasm.

“I can’t wait for you to start, and you’re going to do just fine.” Jenna beams at me as if it’s settled. “I’m thinking of calling it ‘Guardian Grounds.’ Too cheesy?”

“Definitely too cheesy.” Carter groans playfully.

“I don’t know. I kind of like it.” I shrug, and Jenna’s smile widens. “How about The Guardian Grind?”

“Perfect. I like that.” Jenna leans forward, her eyes bright with interest.

“Has anyone talked to you about the programs available here?” Carter turns to me, genuine concern evident in his expression.

“Not really.” I shake my head. “Blake mentioned the Facility and what they do there, but I’m not allowed to leave HQ…”

“Well, it’s true that you can’t leave the grounds,” Carter says, leaning against the counter, “or rather, you shouldn’t, but that doesn’t mean you can’t take advantage of their services. Therapists who can come talk to you are on site if that’s something you’re interested in.”

“Maybe. I’ll think about it.” The idea of therapy makes my stomach churn, but I force a nod.

“No pressure. Just know it’s an option.” Carter’s expression softens.

We approach the Tech building, a towering structure of glass and steel that gleams in the morning sun. Security checkpoints line the entrance, each more advanced than the last.

“Wow,” I breathe in, taking in the array of scanners. “How does all this work?”

“Everyone has access cards.” Carter pulls out a sleek card from his pocket. “They’re encrypted with our biometric data and clearance levels.” He swipes the card, and a green light blinks. “Different areas require different levels of clearance.”

We pass through a series of scanners—retinal, palm, full-body. The air hums with unseen energy, making the hair on my arms stand on end.

As we enter the central atrium, a blur of color and energy comes barreling toward us.

“Welcome to my playground.” A petite woman with psychedelic rainbow hair rushes us. Glitter shimmers in her pixie cut as she bounces on her toes.

No introduction is needed, as I remember Mitzy from the briefing when I explained the nine Sentinels to the Guardians.

“Blake asked if you could give her the tour.” Carter chuckles at Mitzy’s boundless energy.

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