Page 18 of Rescuing Rebel

“You’re fitting right in. My door’s always open if any issues arise.” Sam smiles and rises. “You seem distracted. Everything okay?”

“Yeah, just tired.” I clear my throat, scrambling for composure.

Sam’s gaze bores into me. “Well, shake it off. I need you sharp.” He claps my shoulder. “Keep your head in the game. Eyes on the prize.” With that, he leaves me to my thoughts.

His words couldn’t come at a more opportune time. I chose this life of service and sacrifice and won’t toss it away, no matter the temptation. Except, no matter what I try, my thoughts turn toward Rebel with her fiery red hair, emerald eyes, and luscious lips.

Closing my eyes, I relive running my hands over the smoothness of her bare skin. Her tiny and delicious gasps and moans stir a reaction in me.

It’s an endless loop, making me want her again.

Trying to concentrate and finish my task, I straighten my paperwork and return to work.

That lasts all of thirty seconds.

My problem is I crave her on a cellular level. No matter how much I try to distance myself with work, the ache within me builds. I’ve tried to remain professional, but the thoughts streaming through my mind are far from professional. Try as I might, they’re not going anywhere.

Still, I wrestle for control. Reminding myself she depends on me for safety, not seduction. She’s a survivor under my protection, not someone to be touched and tasted so intimately.

Why is that so difficult to remember?

I need to recommit to my duty and keep our relationship professional.

However, when I passed Rebel in the hall this morning, her floral perfume enveloped me. Her whispered words stopped me cold.I can’t stop thinking about you.Those words keep running through my mind.

It took all my discipline not to pull her into my arms when she said that to me. I groan inwardly, desire simmering in my veins. She’s not making restraint easy. I need to resist, but part of me craves more.

Far more.

My thoughts tangle in a battle between duty and reckless want.

Somehow, I make it through my notes before our students arrive.

We’re at a point where the women are ready for more focused training according to their strengths and weaknesses. I pair up the women according to their strengths, except for one woman in particular.

When Rebel arrives at practice, she makes a beeline toward me.

“You forgot your promise to show me the tide pools. I’ve been looking forward to spending time alone with you.” She pouts playfully.

I shift on my feet. “Apologies, duty called. We can reschedule when I’m free.” I avoid meeting her eyes and hate the brusqueness of my tone. I’m desperately trying to keep things professional while she’s constantly trying to seduce me.

“It’s an hour to low tide—the perfect time for a stroll on the beach.” Stepping close, she trails a finger down my chest. “I want you to take me.”

“I don’t think we should...” I swallow thickly as her fingertips reach my belt. She loops her finger around the leather and gives a little tug.

“You most definitely should.” She gives another, more insistent, tug on my belt. “Unless you think I’m unattractive? Or toofragile?Maybe you don’t think I can consent, considering why I’m here. Is that the problem?”

She leaves it unspoken how insulting it would be if I think she’s too fragile for sex after being rescued from a sex-trafficking ring.

I mean, I get it. Most women would never want to be touched by a man again, but she does. She steps back, giving me room to make up my mind. Why the hell am I being so damn difficult? Others wouldn’t think twice and jump on the opportunity for a quick fuck with a willing woman.

Not me.

I’m a valiant warrior with a ridiculous sense of honor.

“You’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever met, but…”

“I want you to do very bad things to me, Ethan Blackwood, and I’m tired of waiting.” Her words arewayover the top, but they do the trick.

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