Fuck emotions. This is a raw, visceralneed.
“Um, I think I’ll take a quick shower if that’s okay?” Sophia gathers up the toiletries, her movements graceful despite her exhaustion.
“Of course.” I keep my voice neutral, even as my pulse quickens. The slight flushing of her cheeks and the way her hands tremble as she collects her things says far too much. “I’ll be right out here if you need anything.”
She gives me a small, almost shy smile before turning away. The bathroom door closes softly behind her, and I sink onto the couch, dropping my head into my hands. The sound of running water fills the apartment, a reminder of her presence just a few feet away.
My imagination runs wild, picturing her in the shower, and I groan, forcing myself to think of anything else—mission reports, weapon maintenance, literally anything but Sophia naked in the next room.
But the way she looked at me, the way her body respondedduring that hug—it’s impossible to ignore the chemistry between us. The tension is undeniable, and she feels it too.
When she finally emerges, wrapped in a fluffy robe with damp hair curling around her face, I stand abruptly, my body on edge. Time to make a quick exit and end this torment.
“I should get going.” I head toward the door, eager to escape the temptation she poses.
Sophia’s eyes widen, a flicker of panic crossing her face.
“Actually… Would you mind staying? Just until I fall asleep?” She twists the belt of her robe between her fingers, her voice trembling slightly. “I know it’s a lot to ask, but this place still feels unfamiliar.”
“Alright.” I should leave, but I’m unable to refuse her. “I’ll stay until you’re asleep.”
She disappears into the bedroom, and I take off my boots, bracing myself for what’s ahead. My hands tremble as I set them aside, and I take a deep breath to steady myself.
“Blake?” Sophia’s voice calls softly from the bedroom.
I step in cautiously. She’s wearing the pajamas from the care package—soft flannel pants and a loose T-shirt. The sight of her like this, so vulnerable, makes my throat tighten as I swallow hard against the lump forming there.
“Could you… If it’s not too much to ask, do you think you could hold me until I fall asleep?” Her voice is timid and unsure, and her eyes are wide with vulnerability.
“Of course.” I take a step closer, my heart pounding.
I sit beside her, gently pulling her into my arms. She nestles against me, her body fitting perfectly against mine. The warmth of her skin, the soft scent of her hair—everything about this moment feels both right and dangerously intoxicating.
My pulse races, but I force myself to focus on being a comforting presence for her. She gradually relaxes, her breathing slowing, fingers clutching my shirt. Each second stretches into an eternity.
“I never thought I’d be free of him.” Sophia’s breath is warm against my neck. Her fingers trace idle patterns on my chest,sending shivers down my spine. “I’ll always be grateful to you for saving me.”
My arm tightens around her involuntarily. I want to tell her how strong she is, how much I admire her resilience. But I stay silent, not trusting myself to speak.
As Sophia’s breathing evens out and she drifts off to sleep, I lie there, hyperaware of every point where our bodies connect. It takes every ounce of willpower not to stroke her hair or press a kiss to her forehead.
Once I’m sure she’s deeply asleep, I carefully extricate myself from her embrace. I pause at the bedroom door, looking back at her peaceful form. Something tightens in my chest, but I force myself to leave the room. I settle onto the couch, bracing for a long, uncomfortable night. My body aches with unfulfilled desire, but even more, my mind races with conflicting emotions.
I want to protect Sophia, to help her heal, but I also want her in ways I shouldn’t—ways that would complicate everything. As I stare at the ceiling, I curse Forest Summers and this assignment.
The night drags on endlessly. I toss and turn, struggling to find a comfortable position on the too-small couch. At some point, I must have dozed off, because I suddenly jerk awake to the sound of soft whimpers coming from the bedroom. Instantly, I’m on my feet, moving silently toward Sophia’s room.
She’s tangled in the sheets, her face twisted in fear as she mumbles incoherently. A nightmare. My heart aches for her as I approach the bed.
“No… Please… Not again… Master, please… I’ll be good… Don’t hurt me…”
“Sophia.” I gently nudge her shoulder. “Wake up. You’re safe.”
Her eyes fly open, wild with terror. She doesn’t recognize me and shrinks away.
“It’s okay.” I keep my distance. “It’s Blake. You’re safe. You’re at Guardian HQ. No one can hurt you here.”
Recognition flickers in her eyes, quickly followed by relief. Without warning, she throws herself into my arms, sobbing against my chest.