Page 37 of Rescuing Sophia

For so many years, every decision, every movement, was dictated by someone else. Blake waits, giving me space to think. The reality of beingallowedto decide is monumental. I glance at Blake, his supportive eyes encouraging me. A small, nervous smile forms on my lips as I take a deep breath.

Finally, I meet his gaze. “I’d like to go with Jenna and Carter if that’s okay.” My voice grows stronger as I continue.

A mix of emotions flashes across his face—pride, concern, and something darker, more primal.

“Are you sure?” He steps closer, his voice low.

“I’m sure.” My heart races at his proximity.

Blake’s eyes darken, a silent conversation passing between us. His hand finds the small of my back, fingertips pressing ever so slightly. He leans in, his breath warm against my ear.

“I can’t wait to see you later.” His voice is husky.

As he pulls back, raw desire flashes in his eyes, quickly masked. His thumb traces small circles on my lower back, promising things to come.

“Already, I miss you.” Blake leans in for a kiss, his lips brushing my cheek. He lingers there, his breath warm against my skin.

My heart skips a beat at his words. Blake pulls back slightly, his eyes locking with mine. The intensity in his gaze makes my breath catch.

“We’ll talk more when we’re alone. And Sophia…” He leans in again, voice dropping to a husky whisper.

“Yes?” My voice trembles slightly with anticipation.

His hand tightens on my waist, fingers digging in just enough to remind me of his strength. A thrill runs through me, equal parts excitement and trepidation.

Blake’s eyes darken, a predatory gleam flickering in their depths.

A low growl rumbles in his chest. “You’re doing great.” His approval washes over me like a warm wave. “Enjoy the freedom to make your own choices now. Later... you’re mine.”

My breath catches. The promise of surrendering control toBlake, of letting go completely, is intoxicating. So very different from the fear that accompanied every moment of my previous life.

Images flash through my mind—Jonathan Greaves’ cruel smile, the constant terror, the pain of disobedience. His command to call himMaster, to bow and scrape, and serve. I shudder, pushing the memories away.

This is different.

Blake is different.

With Blake, submission is a choice—a gift I give willingly, not something ripped from me. The trust between us is fragile and new, but it’s there, growing stronger with each passing moment.

As thrilling as exploring Guardian HRS might be, a part of me is already counting down the hours until I can lose myself in Blake’s arms and surrender to his need.

It’s a heady feeling, this power to choose. To say yes, knowing I could say no. To give myself over to Blake, not out of fear, but by a choice born out of desire and trust.

Yet a small voice in the back of my mind whispers.

Can you truly trust anyone after what you’ve been through?Aren’t you trading one form of control for another?

I push the thoughts aside.

This is different.

I am different.

With Blake, I’m not a thing to be used, abused, and put away until it’s time to do it all over again. I’m an equal partner, cherished and protected. I sayequalas if I know what that means, but for the past few years, I’ve been anything but.

I’ve been subjugated and forced. Yet, with Blake, I believe someday I’ll truly understand what it means to be equal.

“Sophia?” Blake’s deep voice pulls me from my thoughts.

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