Page 30 of Echoes of Fear

When he doesn’t say anything, I go ahead with the plan. I always prefer verbal agreements, but I know he’s not entirely with me, right now.

I place him on the side of the bed and wait to make sure he’s not going to fall before heading to my drawer. Grabbing the smallest boxers and shirt I own, I head back.

Removing the blankets from around his body, I grip the bottom of his wet shirt and start to pull it up.

Knox’s entire body stiffens, and I freeze.

“I’m sorry that I didn’t explain what I was about to do,” I say, internally punching myself. “I’m going to remove your clothes, baby, and put these dry ones on so that you don’t get sick.”

It takes several moments for him to relax and nod.

“I’m sorry, baby boy, but I’m going to need a verbal response this time,” I explain. “Is it alright if I remove your clothes?”

“Yy…yes sir.”

“Good boy for answering. If you need me to stop at any time, you just say red, got it?”

He nods.

“Words, Knox.”

“Got it.”

I make quick work of removing his clothing and dressing him one item at a time so that he’s not completely exposed all at once.

I try to remember what Steel and Blaze told me about the day Knox was attacked. Was he molested? Damn it. I can’t remember. I’m going to need to talk to them about it so that I know how to respond in situations like this.

“All dressed,” I say, kneeling down in front of him. “Can you open your eyes for me?”

He shakes his head.

Fuck. How am I going to get him to relax?

“I’ll be right back,” I promise when an idea comes to me.

“No go,” he screams, reaching out for me.

“Want to come with me?” I suggest. “We’re just going downstairs.”

He nods, and I lift him back into my arms.

This is quickly becoming my favorite mode of transporting this boy.

“I’m going to sit you on the couch.”

I place him down and walk to the kitchen. With the two rooms next to each other, I can still see him.

“Don’t be afraid, little one,” I tell him. “I promise that he won’t hurt you.”

I open the door to the basement, and Titan bolts out.

“I’m sorry that Uncle Reynolds wouldn’t let you chase down that tornado,” I tell an excited Titan as he wags his little nub of a tail. “He’s such a meanie.”

Titan barks and yaps as he runs circles around my body. Laughing, I give him the attention he desperately needs.

In the middle of his ear scratches, he hears Knox gasp and freezes. He turns to look at the intruder, and I wait with bated breath. I’m surprised that Titan hadn’t worked it out before now that there was a new scent in his house. He must have been too excited.

He spends several long moments assessing Knox. He takes a few sniffs. Tilts his head when Knox clears his throat. Then puffs out a breath when he decides what type of person this new stranger is.

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