Page 112 of At the Edge of Surrender

I still didn’t understand how I’d arrived at this place.

Believing in him.

Dragon

I promise I won’t betray that trust.

Another text came in right behind it.

Dragon

It’s something that’s hard for you. Trusting.

I could almost feel his spirit dancing in the room. Shadows that played across the walls as he watched over me from afar.

Me

Sometimes the only thing it takes is one incident…one horrible moment…to destroy trust forever.

His response popped up almost immediately.

Dragon

I want to know who hurt you. Who put those ghosts in those gorgeous eyes. Want to end them so you never have to be afraid again.

I should be terrified of what he was saying because nothing about his statement felt off-handed or blasé.

Me

It was a long time ago, and it’s not your burden to carry.

Dragon

That’s where you’re wrong, Little Warrior. You became that when you let me touch you. When you let me taste you. When you put your trust and your body in my hands. I’m the only one who’s done that, aren’t I? The only one who’s made you feel safe to bare yourself that way?

God, how did he know? How could he see right through me? And why was I giving him an open door? But there I was, letting my fingers betray the promises I had made to myself.

Me

I tried. Twice. Both times, I just went numb.

My spirit taking flight. Removing me from the horrors I was instantly transported back to.

Dragon

And were you numb with me?

I glanced around the room as if I was worried I was going to be caught doing something salacious, my heart racing and that achy spot he conjured throbbing.

Me

I think you know the answer to that.

Dragon

How did it make you feel?

I could feel his caution. Wanting to make sure I was fine and also wanting to tread into the attraction that so clearly burned around us.

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