Page 81 of Rebellion

“I’ll also remind you that you were kidnapped tonight.”

A shudder ran through her.

As if she could forget. Although, for a moment, she’d pushed the memory to the back of her mind.

“That . . . that isn’t something you can forget.”

“That won’t happen again,Mo leannan,” he whispered. “I won’t allow it.”

Right. But it wasn’t like he could do anything to stop it, could he? Because after tonight, they’d go back to being... acquaintances? Friends?

Friendly acquaintances?

Could she stand it? Was this smart? After experiencing his care and attention, could she go back to... nothing?

Her pulse raced as her breathing grew faster.

“Right, you’re freaking out again. You need to take a slow breath in for me. That’s it. In. Now, hold. Out. Good girl. That’s it. Let’s get you settled. What helps? Heat?”

She nodded.

“Good. I’ll go find a heating pad. I think Miller has one for her periods.”

Kind of weird he knew that, but all right...

“Medication?”

“I don’t have any with me. My handbag...”

“Right. I’ll send for the doctor.”

“No!” she cried.

He frowned. “You don’t get to tell me no.”

What?

“Not tonight. Not while I’m caring for you. It’s your safeword or you do as you’re told.”

“How did I not know you were so arrogant and pushy?”

“You knew,” he countered. “You even like my arrogance and pushiness.”

“Uh, I think not.”

“I think so,” he countered. “They’re among my best qualities. Along with my good looks, smarts, and charismatic personality. Now, you’re to stay right where you are while I get the heating pad and call the doctor.”

“No doctor. Please,” she begged. “I just need some painkillers. And some sleep.”

Even though she was kind of scared to sleep.

“All right, we’ll do this,” he said after a long moment. “You’ll take the painkillers I give you and we’ll see if you feel better. If the pain level is still high, I’ll call the doctor and you won’t argue.Oh, and you will also tell me the truth about your pain levels.” He gave her a firm look.

Sofia sighed but nodded.

It was the best deal she was going to get.

“Stay.”

---