Page 16 of Shadow

I would have plenty of time to analyze later. If I lived long enough.

After taking care of my bladder, I turned my attention to the neatly folded clothes on the counter.

The soft beige cotton pants would show dirt the instant I tripped, because Iwouldtrip.

The matching bra and panties, also beige, seemed plain but functional.

Slipping them on, I realized everything fit perfectly, which felt unsettling.

Had King guessed, or had someone measured me while I was unconscious?

I shook off the thought and pulled on the light blue T-shirt.

It was simple and clean, a welcome change from the sweat-soaked outfit I had arrived in.

I caught my reflection in the mirror and groaned.

There was no comb or brush, so I tackled my hair with my fingers, only managing to tame it into a barely passable state.

My gaze drifted to the empty countertop.

No toothbrush.

I sighed, silently adding it to the list of things I would need to ask for if I survived King’s hospitality long enough.

Spotting the water bottle, I filled it from the tap but hesitated.

Drinking unfiltered water was a rookie mistake.

I couldn’t believe I had forgotten so quickly.

Years of conditioning should have made this second nature.

Grimacing, I poured the water into the sink, watching it swirl away as I mentally scolded myself for the slip.

With a deep breath, I slipped on the black flip-flops left on the floor.

They were a little loose but a massive upgrade from the heels I had worn when I arrived.

The cool metal of the doorknob turned, and I stepped out.

The bedroom, dimly lit by a single lamp, was spacious and minimalist.

Colorful area rugs broke up the expanse of Spanish-tiled flooring.

A simple white bedspread covered the four-poster bed, and tied mosquito netting gave the space an unexpectedly soft touch.

My eyes adjusted to the shadows, and I froze when I spotted King sitting at a small table in the corner. His gaze was piercing, like he was dissecting me from afar. Goosebumps rippled across my skin despite the lingering heat.

“Can you see, or should I turn up the lights?” His deep voice broke the silence, making me jump even though I had known he was there.

I took a few tentative steps forward, swallowing the lump in my throat. “Um, I think I’m good,” I replied, my voice wavering more than I liked.

He stood and approached me with an easy, fluid motion. “Let me help you. I’m sure you’re hungry, and I’ve been waiting for you.” He extended his hand, palm up.

I hesitated, staring at it. Touching him felt like crossing some invisible line. The president’s orders ran through my mind, but for once, I couldn’t care less.

King didn’t flinch or lower his hand. He was perfectly composed, as though my indecision didn’t faze him.Oh hell,I thought, and reluctantly placed my hand in his. His fingerswrapped around mine, warm and firm, and he gently pulled me closer, guiding me to the table.

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